Praziquantel belongs to a class of medications called anthelmintics. It is used to treat several types of worm infections, for example tapeworm infestations, intestinal fluke infections, liver fluke infections, and a condition called schistosoma (infection with a type of worm that lives in the bloodstream).
Praziquantel is taken by mouth as a tablet. It should be taken with food, Swallow the whole tablet and do not crush or chew to prevent bitter taste. However, the tablet may be crushed and mixed with semi-solid food or liquid to prevent choking in younger children. Use crushed tablets within 1 hour.
Your doctor will advise you on the dosage and frequency depending on your infection.
Tapeworm infections (Taenia solium)
Adult and child over 4 years
5-10 mg/kg body weight for 1 dose, to be taken after a light breakfast.
Tapeworm infections (Hymenolepis nana)
Adult and child over 4 years
25 mg/kg body weight for 1 dose, to be taken after a light breakfast.
Schistosomiasis
Adult and child over 4 years
20 mg/kg body weight every 4-6 hours for 3 doses, or 40-60 mg/kg body weight as a single dose.
Common dosing schedule:
Praziquantel should be taken with food.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Praziquantel may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Praziquantel is an over-the-counter medicine and can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. Praziquantel capsule is a prescription drug. It can be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Praziquantel in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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