Anthelminthic

Anthelminthic

An anthelminthic (also spelled anthelmintic) is a type of medication used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms (helminths). These medications are critical in the management of diseases caused by various types of helminths, including roundworms, flukes, and tapeworms. Anthelminthics work by either killing the parasites or expelling them from the host body.

Mechanism of Action

Anthelminthics can act through several mechanisms:

• Neuromuscular Blockade: Some anthelminthics, such as piperazine, cause paralysis of the worms by blocking neuromuscular transmission, leading to their expulsion from the host.
• Inhibition of Metabolic Processes: Drugs like albendazole and mebendazole inhibit the uptake of glucose by the worms, depleting their energy stores and causing death.
• Disruption of Cellular Structures: Praziquantel increases the permeability of the cell membranes of the parasites, leading to their disintegration.

Common Anthelminthic Drugs

• Albendazole: Effective against a wide range of helminths, including hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.
• Mebendazole: Used to treat infections caused by roundworms, hookworms, and pinworms.
• Praziquantel: Primarily used for treating schistosomiasis and infections caused by flukes and tapeworms.
• Ivermectin: Effective against a variety of parasitic infections, including strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis.

Clinical Use

Anthelminthics are used in both human and veterinary medicine. In humans, they are prescribed based on the type of helminth infection, the severity of the infection, and the patient's overall health. In veterinary medicine, anthelminthics are used to treat parasitic infections in livestock and pets, which can improve animal health and productivity.

Side Effects

While generally safe, anthelminthics can cause side effects, which may include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Headaches and dizziness.
• Allergic reactions in some individuals.

Resistance

Helminth resistance to anthelminthics is an emerging problem, particularly in veterinary medicine. Resistance can develop due to the overuse or misuse of these drugs, leading to the need for alternative treatments or combination therapies.

Also see

• Parasitic worm
• Helminthiasis
• Antiparasitic
• Infectious disease

Classification