Biltricide (
generic name: praziquantel) is classified as an
anthelmintic and
trematodicide medication, used to treat several
parasitic infections, including
blood flukes (schistosomiasis caused by various
Schistosoma species),
liver flukes (
Clonorchis sinensis and
Opisthorchis viverrini), and
lung flukes (
Paragonimus species). It also treats
adult tapeworm infections (taeniasis) and is effective in neurocysticercosis, where tapeworm larvae infect the brain. Infected individuals often experience
abdominal pain,
diarrhea,
cough,
fever,
chest pain, or
nervous system symptoms, depending on the parasite type.
Praziquantel works by disrupting the
worm’s cell membrane, increasing permeability to calcium ions. This causes intense muscle contraction and damage to the parasite’s protective outer layer (tegument), resulting in paralysis and death of the parasite.
Dosage
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts regarding the proper dosage and treatment regimen.
Biltricide is taken orally with a small amount of liquid (but not with grapefruit juice) during or after meals. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, due to their bitter taste and potential for numbing the tongue. Adults and children over 4 years old can use the medication, but dosage varies depending on the type and severity of infection.
For schistosomiasis, the typical total dose is 40 mg/kg, given in two divided doses 4 to 6 hours apart. In some cases, a total dose of 60 mg/kg divided into three doses may be prescribed. For liver and lung flukes, the dosage usually ranges from 75 mg/kg total, given over three doses in a single day.
Storage
Biltricide should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect the tablets from moisture and light by keeping them in their original packaging until use. Do not store in bathrooms or other areas with high humidity.
If in any doubt, consult our blog on safe medicine management.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Biltricide do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include dizziness, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and tiredness. These reactions are usually mild and temporary. Some patients may also experience vomiting, diarrhea, or increased sweating shortly after dosing.
More serious side effects can occur if large numbers of parasites are killed at once, leading to inflammation in affected organs. This may cause high fever, muscle pain, or allergic-like symptoms.
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Biltricide is used to treat infections caused by parasitic flatworms, also known as trematodes and cestodes. The most common condition treated is schistosomiasis, caused by blood flukes (Schistosoma species). These parasites live in freshwater snails and infect humans through skin contact with contaminated water. Symptoms include rash, fever, chills, cough, and later, liver or urinary tract complications.
It is also effective against clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis, caused by liver flukes (Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini), which are transmitted through ingestion of raw or undercooked fish. Symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, and long-term liver inflammation.
Paragonimiasis, a lung fluke infection, typically occurs after consuming undercooked crustaceans. Patients may experience chest pain, cough, and blood-streaked sputum, which may resemble tuberculosis.
Biltricide also treats neurocysticercosis, a brain infection caused by larval tapeworms, often leading to seizures, headaches, and other neurological symptoms. Treatment requires careful medical supervision due to inflammation from dying parasites.