Praziquantel
Praziquantel is an anthelmintic medication effective against flatworms. It increases cell membrane permeability in susceptible worms, leading to a loss of intracellular calcium, massive contraction, and paralysis of their musculature, which allows the host's immune system to destroy them.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage is highly individualized based on body weight and the specific type of parasitic infection. Typically dosed at 20 to 25 mg/kg per dose, three times a day for 1 day (for flukes), or 40 to 60 mg/kg as a single dose or split doses (for schistosomiasis). Take tablets whole with water during meals; do not chew due to an extremely bitter taste.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Specialist determination
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants and children weighing less than 5 kg or under 1-2 years of age have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg to 150 mg
- Frequency
- Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day
- Tracking Notes
- Usually given as 1/4 of a 600 mg scored tablet (150 mg). Take with meals.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 150 mg to 200 mg
- Frequency
- Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day
- Tracking Notes
- Administer with plenty of water. Do not chew.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 300 mg
- Frequency
- Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day
- Tracking Notes
- Equivalent to 1/2 of a 600 mg scored tablet. Take during a meal.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 450 mg
- Frequency
- Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day
- Tracking Notes
- Equivalent to 3/4 of a 600 mg scored tablet. Avoid chewing to prevent nausea or vomiting from the bitter taste.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine / Specialist determination | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in infants and children weighing less than 5 kg or under 1-2 years of age have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | 100 mg to 150 mg | Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day | Usually given as 1/4 of a 600 mg scored tablet (150 mg). Take with meals. |
| 8-10 kg | 150 mg to 200 mg | Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day | Administer with plenty of water. Do not chew. |
| 11-15 kg | 300 mg | Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day | Equivalent to 1/2 of a 600 mg scored tablet. Take during a meal. |
| 16-20 kg | 450 mg | Single dose or split into 2 doses in 1 day | Equivalent to 3/4 of a 600 mg scored tablet. Avoid chewing to prevent nausea or vomiting from the bitter taste. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of infections caused by Schistosoma (schistosomiasis), liver flukes (Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini), lung flukes, and certain tapeworm infections.
Generic Name
PraziquantelBranded Drug Names
Praziquantel is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.