(niclosamide)
Brand
Niclosan
Availability
- Tablets: 500 mg
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 & loss of appetite possible in high doses
Skin: rectal pruritus.
Dosage Recommendations
100 mg/kg, PO, Give once and then repeat in 7 days. 9
or
100 mg/kg, PO, repeat after 7 days. 35
Considerations
- Keep in closed container in a dry place.
