Praziquantel is used to treat parasitic and worm infections.
Take Praziquantel exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Praziquantel should be taken with or immediately after a full meal. The tablet can be swallowed whole, in halves or in quarters. To prevent gagging or vomiting, do not to chew or crush the tablet. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Take this medicine at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses and continue to take Praziquantel even when you feel better. To clear the infection, you must complete the entire course unless otherwise directed.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have eye problems as Praziquantel may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Praziquantel with rifampicin (medicine for tuberculosis).
Inform your doctor if you have the following:
- brain disease
- heart disease
- liver disease
- epilepsy (seizures or fits)
- a type of parasitic infection called “Schistosomiasis”
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Practise good hygiene to reduce the chances of getting infected again. Wash your hands before eating and after using the toilet.
Praziquantel may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: vomiting, stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhoea, headache and tiredness.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Praziquantel with rifampicin (medicine for tuberculosis).
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for epilepsy (seizures or fits) e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
- medicines for malaria e.g. chloroquine
- medicines to treat fungal infections e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole
- cimetidine (medicine to neutralise stomach acid)
- erythromycin (antibiotic)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Praziquantel.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol and grapefruit juice.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.