Praziquantel

Information about Praziquantel

Praziquantel uses

Praziquantel is used in the treatment of worm infections and schistosoma infections.

How praziquantel works

Praziquantel works by causing severe spasms and paralysis of the worms' muscles. Some kinds of worms are then passed in the stool. However, you may not notice them since they are sometimes completely destroyed in the bowels. This treats your infection.

Common side effects of praziquantel

Headache, Fever, Dizziness, General discomfort, Abdominal discomfort, Urticaria, Ringing in ear, Visual disturbance, Weakness, Muscle pain, Breathlessness, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Seizure, Polyserositis, Increased white blood cell count (eosinophils)

Available Medicine for Praziquantel

  • ₹341
    Taj Pharma India Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹128
    Western Remedies
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹120
    Medsuvac Lifesciences Private Limited
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹258
    Merck Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹150
    Kachhela Medex Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹156
    Jolly Healthcare
    1 variant(s)

Expert advice for Praziquantel

  • You have been prescribed Praziquantel to treat a variety of parasitic worm infections.
  • It should be taken with food.
  • Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water.
  • It can be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take it during pregnancy. Use birth control measures to prevent pregnancy while taking Praziquantel.
  • Your doctor may monitor your blood counts and liver function before you start taking this medicine and regularly throughout your treatment.
  • Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Inform your doctor if you develop signs of infection.
  • Do not skip doses and finish the prescribed course, even if you start to feel better. Stopping it early may increase your risk of further infection.

Frequently asked questions for Praziquantel

Praziquantel

Q. Is Praziquantel effective?
Praziquantel is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Praziquantel too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
Q. Can the use of Praziquantel cause dizziness?
Yes, Praziquantel can make you feel dizzy. Avoid driving, operating on machinery, working at heights or participating in potentially dangerous activities, especially during the initial days of your treatment. However, if your condition does not improve, consult your doctor.
Q. Are there any specific contraindications associated with the use of Praziquantel?
The use of Praziquantel is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to any other ingredients of this medicine, and if you are suffering from asthma. Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions before taking the medicine.
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Q. What are the instructions for storage and disposal of Praziquantel?
Keep this medicine in the container or pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it as mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children and other people.
Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Praziquantel?
If you forget a dose of Praziquantel, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next scheduled dose in the prescribed time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. Is Praziquantel safe?
Praziquantel is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Take it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.

Content on this page was last updated on 13 June, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)