Niclosamide: Uses, Side Effects and Precautions
Niclosamide, marketed under brand names like Niclocide, is an effective treatment for tapeworm infections such as diphyllobothriasis, hymenolepiasis, and taeniasis. It is taken orally and does not affect other types of worms, such as pinworms and roundworms.
Niclosamide Uses
- Niclosamide is an anthelmintic, which means it kills parasitic worms. Anthelmintics are medications that are used to treat worm infections.
- It is used to treat tapeworm infections such as large or fish tapeworm, dwarf tapeworm, and beef tapeworm.
- Niclosamide can also be used to treat other tapeworm infections if your doctor recommends it. It is ineffective against other forms of worm infections (for example, pinworms or roundworms).
- Niclosamide kills tapeworms when they come into contact with it. The destroyed worms are passed in the stool, although they may not always be visible in the stool.
- Niclosamide requires a doctor's prescription.
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- Niclosamide can be taken without food (either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). However, taking it after a light meal can help avoid stomach discomfort (e.g: breakfast).
- Chew or crush Niclosamide tablets thoroughly before swallowing them whole with a small amount of water. For children, crush tablets into a fine powder and mix with a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully for the complete clearance of your infection. Typically, one dose is sufficient, but some patients may need a second dose to fully clear the infection.
Niclosamide Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Niclosamide
- Abdominal pain
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
- Itching of the rectal area
- Skin rash
- Unpleasant taste
- Swelling of the face
Precautions for Taking Niclosamide
- Inform your doctor if you have allergies to Niclosamide or any other medications.
- Niclosamide has been studied in children aged 2 and older without causing different side effects than those in adults.
- Its effects in elderly patients have not been fully studied.
- Niclosamide poses a small risk to breastfeeding infants, consult your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to prevent interactions.
- Dosage varies by patient; follow your doctor's instructions closely.
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Book an AppointmentDosage Information
- Take Niclosamide as soon as you remember if you miss a dose. Skip the missed dose if your next dose is approaching. Do not double dose.
Overdose
- Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose of Niclosamide. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, unconsciousness, excitement, dizziness, drowsiness, seizures, difficulty breathing, and depression.
Storage
- Store Niclosamide tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep out of reach of children. Do not keep outdated or unnecessary medications.
Niclosamide vs Fenbendazole
| Niclosamide | Fenbendazole |
|---|---|
| Niclosamide is an anthelmintic | Fenbendazole is a broad spectrum benzimidazole anthelmintic |
| Formula: C13H8Cl2N2O4 | Formula: C15H13N3O2S |
| Molecular Weight: 327.12 g/mol | Molar mass: 299.349 g/mol |
| Brand name Niclocide | Brand Names ยท Aniprazol + Praziquantel |
| This is a medication used to treat tapeworm infestations. | Fenbendazole is a medication used to treat a variety of parasite infections. |
