Levamisole Hydrochloride
Indications
Levamisole Hydrochloride is indicated in-
- Ascariasis
- Hookworm infections
Pharmacology
Levamisole is the active laevo-isomer of tetramisole. It works by paralysing susceptible intestinal worms which are then excreted from the intestines. Levamisole also enhances cellular immune responses in humans.
Dosage & Administration
The following doses of Levamisole are given as a single administration, preferably after a light meal.
- Age 1-4 year: 1 Tablets or 5 ml Syrup
- Age 5-15 year: 2 Tablets or 10 ml Syrup
- Age 16 year and over: 3 Tablets or 15 ml Syrup
Interaction
May increase toxicity of phenytoin. Increases bioavailability of ivermectin; decreases bioavailability of albendazole. Alcohol causes disulfiram-like reaction.
Contraindications
It is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Levamisole. Levamisole should not be given during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Side effects are infrequent. They are usually mild and transient and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, giddiness (dizziness) and headache. An encephalopathy like syndrome has been reported to have occurred in a few patients two or three weeks after treatment.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Although studies in animals have shown that Levamisole produces no teratogenic effects, current medical practice requires that the benefits of any drug used during pregnancy should be weighed against the possible dangers.
Precautions & Warnings
Effect on ability to drive or operate machinery: There is no evidence to suggest that Levamisole , used for anthelmintic purpose, will produce sedation. Mild and transient giddiness is an infrequent side-effect of treatment. No precautions are suggested concerning the ability to drive or operate machinery.
In case of concurrent microfilaraemia transient fever may occur.
In case of concurrent microfilaraemia transient fever may occur.
Therapeutic Class
Anthelmintic
Storage Conditions
Keep all medicines out of reach of children. Store in a cool and dry place protected from light
