Oxamniquine

Definition

Oxamniquine is an antiparasitic medication used to treat schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic worms. It acts by inducing paralysis and death in the parasites.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxamniquine is primarily effective against Schistosoma mansoni species.
2. It functions by causing spastic paralysis of the schistosomes, leading to their detachment from blood vessels.
3. Oxamniquine is administered orally and undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver.
4. The drug can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
5. Resistance to oxamniquine has been reported but is relatively rare.

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Related terms

Praziquantel:

An antiparasitic drug also used for treating various forms of schistosomiasis.

Anthelmintic:

A class of drugs that expel parasitic worms (helminths) from the body.

Schistosomiasis:

A disease caused by infection with freshwater parasitic worms in certain tropical regions.