Praziquantel
Praziquantel
Praziquantel (pronounced: praz-i-KWON-tel) is a medication primarily used to treat a number of types of parasitic worm infections. Specifically, it is used for schistosomiasis, clonorchiasis, opisthorchiasis, tapeworm infections, and others. It is taken by mouth.
Etymology
The term "Praziquantel" is derived from the systematic chemical name Prazino[2,1-a]isoquinolin-4-one. The name is a combination of the terms "prazino" and "isoquinolin", which refer to the chemical structure of the drug.
Usage
Praziquantel is used to treat diseases caused by infection with several types of internal/gastrointestinal parasites, including hydatid disease, cysticercosis, and broad tapeworm infections. It works by killing the parasites. It does this by causing severe spasms and paralysis of the parasites' muscles. This paralysis results in the death of the parasites.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects may include an allergic reaction, heart problems, and liver problems. It is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. It is believed to work partly by affecting the function of the parasite's sucker and increasing the parasite's cell membrane permeability.
Related Terms
- Parasitic worm
- Schistosomiasis
- Clonorchiasis
- Opisthorchiasis
- Tapeworm infections
- Hydatid disease
- Cysticercosis
- Broad tapeworm
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Praziquantel
- Wikipedia's article - Praziquantel
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