Praziquantel is a medication used to treat schistosomiasis, a parasitic worm disease that you contract when you swim or bathe in contaminated water. Typically, schistosoma worms are endemic to Africa, South America, Asia and the Caribbean islands. Drugs.com says praziquantel is an anti-worm medication that blocks the growth of the schistosoma worm in your body. The National Library of Medicine says you should take 20mg/kg (of your body weight) of praziquantel three times a day for the duration of time your doctor indicates.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, praziquantel commonly causes a headache, drowsiness, dizziness and fever. Drowsiness can become potentially lethal if you operate a car or dangerous equipment when you aren't completely alert. Dizziness typically occurs when your brain isn't receiving enough blood. You may develop lightheadedness and even faint. Praziquantel can also cause stomach pain, nausea and extreme fatigue. Talk to your physician when praziquantel causes these side effects to remain for more than one week.
Serious Side Effects
Praziquantel isn't expected to cause any potentially life-threatening side effects. Drugs.com says its most serious side effects are hives. Hives refer to skin eruptions that occur as a result of a negative reaction to praziquantel. However, you may develop side effects that aren't listed here. Tell your physician if praziquantel causes any other side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid praziquantel if you're allergic to it. Difficulty breathing and swelling of the throat are common manifestations of an allergic reaction to praziquantel. Taking praziquantel while you have liver, kidney or heart disease may be hazardous if your doctor doesn't adjust its dose. Sometimes your doctor may not even prescribe you praziquantel if these diseases are part of your medical history. Praziquantel passes into breast milk, so either stop breastfeeding or change praziquantel to another anti-worm medication.
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