Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PRAZIQUANTEL - ORAL

(prazz-ih-KWAN-tull)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Biltricide

Uses

This medication is used to treat infections due to parasites (e.g., schistosoma and liver flukes).

OTHER

Uses

This drug may also be used to treat some tapeworm infections.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth, with food, as directed by your doctor. Do not chew the tablets. This drug has a bitter taste and is better tolerated if swallowed quickly with liquid during a meal. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve after a few days.

Side Effects

Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, tiredness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and increased sweating may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: rash, seizures, fever, joint or muscle pain, stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, rapid heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), certain eye infections (ocular or spinal cysticercosis), seizures, liver disease. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify certain side effects of this drug. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving) during therapy and for 24 hours after the last dose. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Nursing mothers should temporarily stop breast-feeding on the day of therapy and for 72 hours after taking the last dose. Consult your doctor for details before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you use, especially of: oxamniquine, carbamazepine, phenytoin, dexamethasone. Also report the use of drugs that cause drowsiness such as: sedatives, tranquilizers, psychiatric medications (e.g., certain antidepressants or chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs, certain muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Antihistamines are found in many cough-and-cold products. Check labels carefully and ask your pharmacist about the safe use of your medicines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Urine and stool samples may be examined and other tests may be done periodically to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

It is important you do not miss any doses. However, if you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at or below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.