Back to Anti-Infectives

Brand

Niclosan

Pharmacology

In the class of anthelmintics, niclosamide is a derivative of salicylamide. The drug inhibits oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria of cestodes. It kills tapeworm segments on contact loosening them from the wall of the gut where they may then be digested. It is for this reason that segments may not be seen in the stool.

The drug is minimally absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, and its metabolites are not noted to be seen the blood or the urine.

Studies in rats and rabbits given 25 times the human therapeutic dose, and studies in mice given 12 times the human therapeutic dose, have not shown that niclosamide causes impaired fertility, or cause adverse effects in the fetus. It is not known whether the drug is distributed in milk.

Indications

Used to treat “dwarf tape worm” hymenolepis nana. It is not effective when used for pinworms or roundworms.

Drug Interactions or Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to niclosamide.

Adverse Reactions

GI:   diarrhea & anorexia possible in high doses

Skin:  rectal pruritus.

Dosage Recommendations

100 mg/kg PO; Give once and then repeat in 7 days. ⁹

Considerations

• Keep in closed container in a dry place.

Posted on June 23, 2003, 15:57, Last updated on December 12, 2008, 15:33 | Anti-Infectives