What is Levamisole?
Levamisole is an antihelminthic drug that has been commonly used for the treatment of parasitic, viral, and bacterial infections. It was produced by Janssen and was first used as a worm infestation agent in 1969. In 1990, Levamisole was approved by the FDA as an adjuvant treatment for colon cancer. Previously, levamisole was used as an antirheumatic therapy in the 1970s and 1980s in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Due to its immunomodulatory effects, this drug has been studied in the treatment of various immune-mediated diseases, with some studies showing positive results. This drug was also used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of various cancers.
Levamisole Uses
- Treatment of Worm Infections: Levamisole is primarily used to treat infections caused by worms.
- Veterinary Drug: It is widely used in veterinary medicine to treat worm infestations in livestock.
- Experimental Uses: Historically and experimentally, levamisole has been explored for treating autoimmune disorders and cancers in humans.
- Adulterant in Cocaine: Recently, levamisole has been found as an adulterant in cocaine.
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How to Use Levamisole
- Take levamisole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not adjust the dosage without consulting your doctor.
- Follow the dosing schedule recommended by your doctor. Taking it too frequently or in higher doses than prescribed can lead to side effects.
- If you vomit shortly after taking levamisole, consult your doctor. They will advise whether to take another dose or wait for the next scheduled dose.
Mechanism of Action
- Anti-Parasitic Action: Levamisole works as an anti-parasitic by inhibiting enzyme activity in the worm's muscles. This action leads to paralysis and eventual death of the parasite, thereby treating the infection.
Levamisole Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Mental depression
- Nightmares
- Pain in joints or muscles
- Skin rash or itching
- Trouble sleeping
- Unusual tiredness or sleepiness
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Convulsions (seizures)
- Lip-smacking
- Numbness, tingling, or pain in the face, hands or feet
- Paranoia (feelings of persecution)
- Puffing of cheeks
- Rapid or worm-like movements of the tongue
- Trembling or shaking
- Trouble walking
- Uncontrolled movements of arms and legs
Precautions While Taking Levamisole
- When considering using Levamisole, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about any allergic reactions to Levamisole or other medications.
- Studies have primarily involved adults; safety and effectiveness in children are not well-established.
- Although not extensively studied in older adults, Levamisole is generally considered safe.
- The risk to infants is unknown; weigh benefits against potential risks.
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Important Information
- Regular monitoring by your doctor is crucial to ensure Levamisole's effectiveness and detect any adverse effects.
- Used to treat various parasitic worm infections, Levamisole should be taken with food.
- Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water; do not crush or chew.
- To Avoid pregnancy, use effective birth control while taking Levamisole.
- Blood counts and liver function may be monitored regularly during treatment.
- Avoid contact with sick individuals and inform your doctor of any signs of infection.
- Complete the prescribed course; do not skip doses even if symptoms improve.
Dosage
- Follow your doctor's instructions or label directions precisely.
- Dosage varies based on the condition being treated.
- Do not adjust dosage without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
- If a dose is missed, skip it and resume your regular schedule.
- Do not double doses to compensate for a missed one.
Overdose
- Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an overdose, it can be serious.
Storage
- Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature.
- Protect from light, moisture, and direct sunlight.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Dispose of outdated or unused medications properly.
