The anthelmintic action of praziquantel.
Although fairly expensive (around US$4.00 per single dose) praziquantel is now the most favoured drug against all forms of schistosomiasis, and against many other helminth infections. It is now marketed by four companies: E. Merck and Bayer (F.R.G.), Ames-Myers (USA), and Shin-Poon Pharmaceuticals (S. Korea). Administration of praziquantel typically causes paralysis of susceptible worms, or damage to their tegument, making them more vulnerable to host enzymes or antibody-dependent immune effector mechanisms. Other effects may also be involved. Here, Bill Harnett reviews the range of anthelmintic effects displayed by this remarkable drug.
Division of Parasitology, National Institute for Medical Research, London NW7 1AA, UK.
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