BILTRICIDE (PRAZIQUANTEL)

About Biltricide

Biltricide may be prescribed to those living in tropical and subtropical areas that have become infected with a type of worm that resides in your bloodstream (Schistosomiasis) or the Chinese liver fluke (Clonorchiasis), a type of worm that lives in/near your liver.

These infections appear to be more prevalent among people that live along rivers where there is a lot of raw or undercooked fresh water fish eaten. Although these worms that cause Schistosomiasis are not found in the western world, there are millions of infected people worldwide. Many Asian immigrants living in the US were already infected with Clonorchiasis when they arrived in the USA.

How Does Biltricide Work?

Once diagnosed with the infection, the active ingredient of Biltricide called Praziquantel is dosed according to weight and is advised to swallow with water as breaking or chewing the tablet may cause nausea due to its bitter taste. Once ingested, Biltricide will work by causing severe muscle spasms and paralysis in the parasites which causes them to become dislodged. Many will die and be expelled through your waste and your immune system will also attack any that are left alive.

About the Conditions That Biltricide Treats

Clonorchiasis is prevalent in the Far East, such as Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. The life cycle of these worms start when an infected person uses the waterway as a toilet so the eggs are passed in the feces. Snails then ingest the eggs and then are released as free-swimming larvae that imbed into the skin or flesh of a fresh-water fish. The infected fish are then caught, eaten, and reside in the person’s biliary duct as adults. Clonorchiasis appears as diarrhea, fever, chills, and mild jaundice.

Schistosomiasis follows almost the same road to infection through the snail except the larvae swim in the water until they come into contact with a live host and penetrates the skin. Once they are inside your body, the larvae develop into male and female worms that pair-up and can live in your blood vessels for years as thousands of eggs are released and will pass from your body through urine or feces. Symptoms of Schistosomiasis include abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, a cough, a rash, or headache.

Before Biltricide is Prescribed

Inform your doctor before taking Biltricide if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding as there may be a risk for your unborn or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently use or take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. This will determine if Biltricide is safe for you to take.

Biltricide Precautions

Until you know how Biltricide will affect you, do not drive, operate machinery, or attempt any task that requires your full attention. Do not share this medication with others or administer to children under 4 years of age. Keep out of children’s reach and away from pets. You should not drink alcohol while taking Biltricide as this could increase your risk of serious side effects.

Possible Side Effects of Biltricide

• Drowsiness
• Nausea/vomiting
• Increased sweating