eruption, a type of nematode also), and it may be effective in the treatment of trichinosis
and visceral larva migrans.
b. Usual Dosage. For the treatment of threadworm and cutaneous larva
migrans, the usual dose is 25-mg/kg twice daily for 2 days. The maximum single dose
is 1.5-grams, and the maximum total daily dose is 3.0-grams. If necessary, the course
of treatment may be repeated 1 week later. For the treatment of trichinosis, the current
dosage is the same as for threadworm, but the drug may be continued as long as 4
days.
c. Adverse Reactions. Common side effects include dizziness, anorexia,
nausea, and vomiting. Less common side effects are diarrhea, abdominal cramping
pains, headache, lethargy, drowsiness, and pruritus. Bradycardia, hypotension, visual
disturbances, perianal rashes, tinnitus, and paresthesias occur rarely. Occasionally, the
client's urine has an unaccustomed odor during treatment and 24 hours thereafter.
Leukopenia, crystalluria, and hematuria have been occasionally reported, but all
subsided when treatment with thiabendazole was discontinued.
d. Contraindications and Cautions. Experience is very limited in the effects of
thiabendazole upon children weighing less than 15-kg. Alternate drugs may be
indicated when there is hepatic dysfunction. Thiabendazole must be used with caution
when drug-induced vomiting may be dangerous. If ascarids are present, they may
become hypermotile and appear at the nose or mouth. Thiabendazole should not be
used when complete mental alertness is required.
e. Supply. Thiabendazole is supplied as an oral suspension containing 500 mg
in each 5-ml.
6-36. PRAZIQUANTEL
a. Indications. Praziquantel increases cell membrane permeability in worms,
resulting in a loss of intracellular calcium, massive contractions, and paralysis of the
worm's musculature. It is indicated in the treatment of infections caused by
Schistosoma mekongi, S. japonicum, S. mansoni, and S. hematobium (blood flukes).
b. Usual dosage. Praziquantel tablets should be swallowed with some liquid
during meals. Tablets should not be chewed. Three doses should be administered as
a 1-day treatment in doses of 20-mg/kg. The interval between doses should not be less
than 4 hours and not more than 6 hours. Dosage for children under 4 years of age has
not been established.
c. Cautions and Warnings.
(1)
Safety in pregnancy has not been established.
MD0913
6-33