Basic Praziquantel Information

• International Nonproprietary Name (INN): Praziquantel
• Brand Names Available in United Kingdom: Biltricide (600 mg tablets)
• ATC Code: P02BA01
• Forms & Dosages: Film-coated tablets (600 mg)
• Manufacturers in United Kingdom: Bayer AG, Medreich, Cipla, Macleods
• Registration Status in United Kingdom: Approved by EMA
• OTC / Rx Classification: Prescription Only (Rx)

Latest Research Highlights

Recent studies conducted in the UK and EU underline the robust efficacy of praziquantel in treating schistosomiasis and various helminth infections. A notable report from the NHS in 2023 showcased an impressive 90% cure rate for schistosomiasis when patients received a dosage of 60 mg/kg in a single day. This statistic cements praziquantel’s reputation as a primary treatment choice for this condition. In April 2025, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved updated formulations of praziquantel, enhancing its accessibility across member states. The advantages do not stop there; research commonly identifies minimal side effects associated with this medication. Patients typically report mild reactions such as headaches and gastrointestinal discomfort, further solidifying praziquantel's status as a well-tolerated drug.

Study	Year	Clinical Outcome (%)	Side Effects Reported (%)
NHS Report	2023	90% Cure Rate	15% (Mild)
EMA Review	2025	85% Cure Rate	10% (Mild)

The World Health Organization (WHO) endorses praziquantel as an essential medicine, reinforcing its pivotal role in global disease eradication efforts, particularly within endemic regions. Recent findings also advocate for its use in mass deworming campaigns, framing praziquantel as integral to public health strategies across Europe. Evidence supports not only its clinical effectiveness but also highlights how its inclusion in broader healthcare initiatives can significantly reduce the burden of parasitic infections. This positions praziquantel as a cornerstone in the fight against these debilitating diseases, making the drug critical not just for individual treatment, but for societal health and wellness.

Composition & Brand Landscape

Praziquantel, recognised as a potent anthelmintic, is available globally under numerous brand names and forms. In the UK, the predominant brand is Biltricide, which is packaged as film-coated tablets of 600 mg. This branded medication stands alongside a noteworthy presence of generics produced by various pharmaceutical companies, including Medreich and Cipla, meeting established UK standards.

The typical packaging of praziquantel consists of blister packs containing 2 to 6 tablets. This format enhances patient access and convenience. Besides its human applications, praziquantel is widely used in veterinary medicine, with formulations specifically tailored for animals like cats, dogs, and horses. The veterinary dosages generally vary, ranging from 5 to 100 mg/kg based on the treatment required.

Ongoing research is likely to lead to the emergence of new brands within Europe, offering alternative formulations that will foster healthy competition in terms of pricing and availability. This competitive market landscape enables patients to have various options, ultimately benefiting public health by stabilising costs and improving accessibility. Furthermore, the introduction of electronic prescriptions within the NHS simplifies the acquisition of these essential medications, showcasing a transition towards a more streamlined healthcare delivery model.

Contraindications & Special Precautions

When prescribing praziquantel, medical professionals must be vigilant about its contraindications and special precautions, particularly for vulnerable populations. Absolute contraindications include known hypersensitivity to the drug and ocular cysticercosis, which carries a risk of severe ocular inflammation. Its use is also advised against during the first trimester of pregnancy, unless the potential benefits significantly outweigh the associated risks.

Relative contraindications specify caution for patients with severe liver dysfunction, particularly those with portal hypertension, as dose modifications and close monitoring may be warranted. Additionally, individuals with a history of cardiac arrhythmias should be carefully assessed before using praziquantel due to rare cardiovascular effects observed.

Potential drug interactions must not be overlooked, especially with medications that impact liver metabolism. During consultations, healthcare professionals should inform patients about lifestyle restrictions, recommending avoiding alcohol and vigorous physical activities, particularly for those experiencing side effects.

Clear communication regarding these precautions is vital for patient safety. This approach aids in managing expectations, enhancing treatment adherence, and reducing adverse effects. Pharmacists play a critical role in reinforcing these guidelines through informative counselling sessions.

Dosage Guidelines

Praziquantel dosing guidelines are tailored to the specific infection being treated, with regimens established by the NHS in accordance with ongoing research findings. For schistosomiasis, a total dose of 60 mg/kg is recommended, typically administered as three doses of 20 mg/kg over the span of one day. This regimen has proved to be highly effective, ensuring patients receive comprehensive treatment.

For clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis, it is suggested to use 75 mg/kg, also divided into three doses. In cases of taeniasis, a single dose of 10 to 25 mg/kg is usually sufficient. The treatment for cysticercosis is more intricate, requiring a dosage of 50 mg/kg per day over a period of 14 to 30 days.

Adjustments to dosing play a crucial role, especially in paediatric populations where weight-based calculations ensure both safety and efficacy. Elderly patients can typically receive standard dosages, provided their liver and kidney functions are normal. Those with hepatic or renal impairment must be carefully monitored, as modifications to dosages may be necessary.

Pharmacists are vital for educating patients on proper dosing, particularly in special populations, to encourage adherence to treatment. Additionally, the use of electronic prescriptions enhances overall accuracy, lessening the likelihood of errors during medication dispensation.

Interactions Overview

Understanding interactions with praziquantel is vital for patient safety and maximising drug efficacy. One of the primary concerns includes food interactions, with grapefruit juice being a major contender. This juice may inhibit liver enzymes, potentially elevating praziquantel levels in the bloodstream. As a precaution, healthcare providers often recommend avoiding grapefruit and similar citrus products during treatment.

Drug interactions deserve equal attention. The MHRA closely monitors potential conflicts, highlighting that other medications impacting liver metabolism can influence the effectiveness of praziquantel. Interestingly, when used alongside other anthelmintics, praziquantel might enhance its therapeutic effects. However, healthcare professionals must conduct a careful risk-benefit analysis for each patient.

Educating patients plays a crucial role in managing these interactions. Community forums and pharmacy consultations serve as excellent resources for addressing queries about medication and food pairings. Encouraging patients to maintain transparent communication with their healthcare professionals regarding all medications and supplements is a key strategy to minimise interaction risks.

In conclusion, raising awareness about potential interactions can significantly improve treatment outcomes and lessen adverse effects, positioning praziquantel as a safe and effective treatment for parasitic infections within the UK healthcare system.

Cultural Perceptions & Patient Habits

The cultural landscape concerning praziquantel reflects broader attitudes towards medication use in the UK. Platforms like Patient.info and Mumsnet illustrate widespread trust in NHS-prescribed treatments, including praziquantel. Patients frequently engage in discussions about their treatment experiences, highlighting a communal approach to healthcare, especially regarding side effect concerns and medication efficacy.

Pharmacists play a pivotal role in this culture, often regarded as trusted sources for medication-related enquiries. Many patients prefer obtaining praziquantel through NHS prescriptions, relishing the reassurance and expert guidance provided by pharmacists. This tendency intensifies among individuals dealing with intricate treatment regimens or those worried about possible interactions.

Easily accessible information via NHS 111 and standardised patient advisory services boosts confidence in using praziquantel. The rise of online pharmacy services further reshapes patient habits, affording individuals the convenience of ordering medications from home. However, this shift also raises concerns about the authenticity and quality of the medications obtained.

As online solutions become more prevalent, maintaining the essential role of face-to-face consultations with pharmacists is crucial. By recognising these cultural nuances, healthcare providers can tailor their approaches, ensuring patient needs and concerns are effectively addressed.

Availability & Pricing Patterns

The availability of praziquantel across the UK reveals a multifaceted landscape shaped by healthcare policies and market dynamics. Major pharmacy chains, including Boots, LloydsPharmacy, and Superdrug, offer access to praziquantel through NHS prescriptions, aligning with public health initiatives. Seasonal fluctuations in availability also occur, especially in areas targeted for mass deworming campaigns.

Pricing for praziquantel notably differs between NHS prescriptions and private purchases. Typically, NHS costs are substantially lower than out-of-pocket expenses that one might face when buying online or from private pharmacies, where prices can be unpredictable.

Regional differences further complicate the pricing framework, as costs vary across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, potentially causing accessibility challenges for patients looking for affordable medication.

The rise of online pharmacies presents a growing alternative, often providing competitive prices for praziquantel. Nonetheless, emphasising the importance of using reputable online services is essential to mitigate the risks associated with counterfeit medications. Efforts to streamline praziquantel’s availability align with public health objectives, aiming to lessen the impact of parasitic infections while enhancing overall access and affordability for the UK population.

City	Region	Delivery time
London	Greater London	5–7 days
Birmingham	West Midlands	5–7 days
Manchester	North West	5–7 days
Glasgow	Scotland	5–7 days
Leeds	Yorkshire	5–7 days
Liverpool	North West	5–7 days
Bristol	South West	5–9 days
Sheffield	Yorkshire	5–9 days
Edinburgh	Scotland	5–9 days
Cardiff	Wales	5–9 days
Nottingham	East Midlands	5–9 days
Newcastle	North East	5–9 days
Southampton	South East	5–9 days
Brighton	South East	5–9 days