Praziquantel (άλλο όνομα Biltricide)

Common use

Biltricide is used to treat infections caused by schistosoma worms, which enter the body through skin that has come into contact with contaminated water. Schistosoma worms are found in Africa, South America, Middle Eastern countries, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. Biltricide is also used to treat infection with liver flukes, caused by a type of worm found in East Asia. This worm enters the body while eating contaminated fish. Biltricide is for use in adults and children who are at least 1 year old.

Dosage and direction

Use the medicine exactly as directed. Biltricide is usually taken 3 times in one day. Take your doses 4 to 6 hours apart on that day. Biltricide should be taken with a meal and a full glass of water. You may need to break a Biltricide tablet in order to get the correct dose. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not chew the tablet or portion of a tablet. The bitter taste of the tablet could cause you to gag or vomit.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: lumps (nodules) under your skin; seizures or epilepsy; liver disease; or heart problems.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Contraindications

You should not use Biltricide if you are allergic to it, or if: you have a parasitic infection in your eye; or you have taken rifampin within the past 4 weeks.
Avoid driving or hazardous activity on the day you take Biltricide, and also the day after. Your reactions could be impaired.
Grapefruit may interact with Biltricide and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products.

Possible side effect

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Biltricide may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: fever, chills, sore throat, headache, body aches, tiredness, not feeling well; slow or irregular heartbeats; stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea; a seizure; trouble concentrating; or cold sweats, skin irritation.
Common side effects of Biltricide may include: general ill feeling; headache, dizziness; nausea, stomach discomfort; fever; or rash.

Drug interaction

Many drugs can affect Biltricide, and some drugs should not be used at the same time. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Missed dose

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep away from children and pets.