Distoside 600

Uses
Distoside (Praziquantel) treats parasitic worm infections, such as tapeworm and liver flukes by killing the parasites. This drug is an antihelmetic which is considered especially effective against schistosoma worms (a type of parasite that can infect the body due to contact with water that is contaminated).

Patients suffering from a liver fluke infection (clonorchis sinesis and opisthorchis viverrini) have also been treated with it, as well as tapeworm, paragonimiasis (another name for a lung fluke infection) and other parasitic infections. Its mechanism of action on schistosomes involves affecting the cell membrane permeability, and it triggers the eventual disintegration of the schistosome. This leads to the eventual treatment of the infection, and prevents serious symptoms from developing.

Dosage and Administration
Distoside (Praziquantel) comes in tablet form, and each one contains 600mg of the active ingredient. The exact dosage will be calculated by your doctor based on the specific parasite responsible for the infection and your body weight. Usually, the dosage required for schistosoma haemotobium will differ to that required for opisthorchis viverrini and paragonimus westermani.

Patients are generally instructed to take the tablet after eating, alongside a glass of water. Each tablet has three scores, so that it can be broken into smaller segments. This allows for precise adjustment of the dosage. If you have been instructed to take more than a single dose on the same day, your doctor will most likely instruct you to allow a 4 to 6 hour interval in between doses.

Side effects
Distoside (Praziquantel) could cause:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Muscle pain
• Stomach discomfort
• Fatigue and drowsiness

Ensure that your doctor is made aware of any side effects which occur. Should you experience seizures, diarrhoea which is bloody, fever or any other severe side effects which have not been listed here it will be necessary to attend the hospital immediately.

Precautions
This medicine is not used as a treatment for parasitic infections which affect the eye.

Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice could cause a drug reaction which may be harmful. Ask your doctor about this before starting treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Distoside (Praziquantel) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.