Praziquantel|Structure|Synthesis|Mechanism of action|Uses|Side-effects|Distocide|Droncit|Azinox|Praziquantelum|Pyquiton|Embay|Prazinon|Cesol

 Praziquantel

It is an anthelmintic, which is used in the treatment of many cestode infections. This medication is also used in the treatment of several parasitic worm infections in birds, reptiles, fishes, amphibians, mammals.  It is a pyrazino iso-quinoline derivative. It is solid in nature and soluble in water. The molecular weight of praziquantel is, 312.41 gm/mol and the melting point is, 136°C. The brand name of praziquantel is, Biltricide. It is also known as, Distocide, Droncit, Azinox, praziquantelum, pyquiton, Embay, Prazinon, Cesol etc.

Structure:

The molecular formula of praziquantel is,[C19H24N2O4].

The IUPAC name of praziquantel is,2-(cyclohexane carbonyl)-3,6,7,11b-tetrahydro-1H-pyrazino[2,1-a] isoquinoline-4-one.

Synthesis:

Mechanism of action:

Praziquantel cause rapid Ca2+ influx, due to the influx the worms muscles are paralised. It effects the contraction of schistosomes cell membrane so the cell membrane permeability is decreased. It also causes morphological alterations and increased exposure of schistosome antigen at the parasite surface.

Uses:

It is used in the treatment of all species of schistosome infections and liver fluke. 

Side-effects:

The overdose of praziquantel shows different types of side-effects like,

1. Stomach pain.
2. Headache.
3. Dizziness.
4. Joint and muscle pain.
5. Vomiting.
6. Fever.
7. Skin rash.
8. Sweating.
9. Loss of appetite.
10. Tiredness