Indications
Biltricide is a prescription medication that is used to treat infections caused by certain types of parasites, including Schistosoma and liver flukes. The active ingredient in Biltricide is praziquantel. Praziquantel belongs to a class of drugs known as anthelmintics. It works by causing severe spasms and paralysis in the parasites' muscles, ultimately leading to their death.
Biltricide is available in tablet form for oral administration and is usually taken with a meal. It works by killing the parasites. It also paralyzes the parasites, causing them to release their hold on the blood vessel walls so the body can remove them naturally.
Uses and Dosage
Biltricide is a tablet that is taken orally with a meal as directed by your doctor. The tablet is usually taken three times a day, 4 to 6 hours apart, for one day. The tablet or tablet segments should be quickly swallowed with a full glass of water, without chewing or sucking, to avoid the bitter taste of praziquantel which may cause gagging or vomiting.
Your doctor may adjust the dosage to take this medication fewer than 3 times a day or to take it for longer than 1 day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets, you may crush the medication and mix it in soft foods or liquids, but the mixture should be taken within 1 hour of mixing.
The dosing for Praziquantel (Biltricide) depends on the type of infection being treated and is usually determined by your healthcare provider. For adults and children 1 year or older:
- For blood fluke infections, the typical dose is 20 mg/kg by mouth three times a day (4 to 6 hours apart) for 1 day only.
- For liver fluke infections, the typical dose is 25 mg/kg by mouth three times a day (4 to 6 hours apart) for 1 day only.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Biltricide (Praziquantel):
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Belly discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Feeling tired or weak
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Rash
Serious Side Effects of Biltricide (Praziquantel):
- Difficulty keeping your balance
- Ringing in one or both of your ears
- Changes in vision
- Bloody diarrhea
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Dark urine
- Yellow skin
- Tremor
- Having no appetite
- Rash
- Itching
Form and Strength
Biltricide (Praziquantel) is available in the following forms and strength:
Biltricide: Tablet
- 600 mg
Caution
- Biltricide can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you have had an allergic reaction to praziquantel in the past, you should not take Biltricide.
- People with liver disease may be at increased risk of liver damage while taking Biltricide. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor you closely if you have liver disease.
- The safety of Biltricide during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Biltricide.
- Biltricide may interact with other medications, including blood thinners and certain antidepressants. Make sure to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Biltricide.
- People with certain neurological disorders may be at increased risk of seizures while taking Biltricide. Your doctor will need to evaluate your medical
- Biltricide can cause central nervous system side effects, including headaches, dizziness, and confusion. People with certain central nervous system disorders may be at increased risk of these side effects.
- Biltricide can cause eye disorders, including retinal damage in rare cases. People with a history of eye disorders should talk to their doctor about the risks of taking Biltricide.
- Biltricide can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If these symptoms are severe or persistent, you should contact your doctor.
- People with kidney problems may be at increased risk of side effects while taking Biltricide. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose if you have kidney impairment.
- You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Biltricide, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Biltricide be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The safety of Biltricide during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Biltricide.
What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Biltricide?
If you experience side effects while taking Biltricide, you should contact your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or provide alternative treatment options.
How long does it take for Biltricide to work?
The effectiveness of Biltricide varies depending on the type of parasite being treated. In some cases, a single dose of Biltricide may be sufficient to cure the infection, while in other cases, multiple doses may be required.
How is Biltricide supplied?
Biltricide is supplied in tablet form in various strengths, depending on the dose prescribed by your doctor.
Is Biltricide available over the counter?
No, Biltricide is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter. You will need a prescription from a healthcare provider to obtain Biltricide.
How should Biltricide be stored?
Biltricide should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=34ce1cdd-648e-4f1e-8512-bf3d4cc22eb9
- https://www.rxlist.com/biltricide-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9028/biltricide-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/018714s013lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/praziquantel/what-is
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/biltricide.html
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