Piperazine citrate

Piperazine citrate is an anthelmintic agent, primarily used in the treatment of various parasitic worm infestations. It is a derivative of piperazine, a chemical compound that has been used in medicine since the early 20th century.

History

Piperazine was first synthesized in the 1880s, but it was not until the 1950s that its anthelmintic properties were discovered. The citrate salt form, piperazine citrate, was developed to improve the drug's solubility and stability.

Medical uses

Piperazine citrate is used to treat infestations of roundworms and pinworms. It works by paralyzing the worms, which are then expelled from the body through the feces. The drug is usually administered orally, either as a liquid or in tablet form.

Side effects

Like all medications, piperazine citrate can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as seizures or allergic reactions.

Pharmacology

Piperazine citrate acts by disrupting the neuromuscular system of the worms, causing their paralysis and death. It is thought to act specifically on the GABA receptors of the worms, although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.

See also

• Anthelmintic
• Parasitic worm
• Piperazine