Levamisole

Introduction

Levamisole is a pharmaceutical drug initially developed and used for treating parasitic worm infections and as an adjuvant in certain cancer chemotherapy regimens. Discovered in 1966, its use has significantly declined due to serious side effects.

Levamisole is a drug that was used to treat infections with parasitic worms, and for some forms of chemotherapy, to treat cancer. The drug was discovered in 1966. It was withdrawn from the US and Canadian markets in 2000 and 2003, because of a serious risk of side effects; better drugs can replace it.

Currently, levamisole remains in veterinary use as a dewormer for livestock. The drugs has also been used as an adulterant in cocaine sold in the US and Canada. This use resulted in serious side effects.

Medical Uses

Levamisole tablets.

Levamisole was primarily used for:

• Treating infections caused by parasitic worms
• Enhancing the patient's immune response in cancer chemotherapy

Mechanism of Action

As an anthelmintic, Levamisole works by paralyzing the muscles of worms, leading to their expulsion. In cancer treatment, it modulates the immune system, although its exact mechanism in this context is not fully understood.

History and Discovery

Levamisole was discovered in 1966 and initially garnered attention for its effectiveness against worm infections and potential benefits in cancer treatment.

Withdrawal from Markets

Due to serious side effects, Levamisole was withdrawn from the U.S. and Canadian markets in 2000 and 2003, respectively. These side effects included:

• Agranulocytosis (a severe drop in white blood cells)
• Vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
• Skin reactions

Current Status and Alternatives

While no longer used as a first-line treatment, Levamisole has been replaced by safer and more effective drugs for both parasitic infections and cancer therapy.

Illicit Use

Levamisole has been found as an adulterant in illicit drugs, notably cocaine, posing additional health risks.

See Also

• Parasitic diseases
• Chemotherapy
• Drug safety

External Links

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Parasites
• National Cancer Institute - Chemotherapy

References

Levamisole Resources
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