Praziquantel is an anthelmintic medication used to treat parasitic worm infections such as schistosomiasis, clonorchiasis, and opisthorchiasis. Praziquantel is a pyrazino-isoquinolein derivative from the thioxantonic group used as a broad anthelmintic spectrum.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 3 references
Although the exact mechanism of action is unknown, praziquantel was hypothesized to target the β subunits of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, particularly in Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum, due to the lack of two conserved serine residues in these subunits. This is supported by the finding that co-administration of calcium channel blockers like nicarpidine and nifedipine renders 50% of Schistosoma mansoni resistant to praziquantel.
Increased exposure of antigens on the worm surface was also observed, but little research has been done to elucidate on the mechanism of action.
- Primary indication
- Praziquantel is indicated in patients aged 1 year and older for the treatment of the schistosomiasis due to all species of Schistosoma (for example, Schistosoma mekongi, Schistosoma japonicum, Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma hematobium) and clonorchiasis...Curator reviewed · 5 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C19H24N2O2 · 312.4061 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1997 · United States, 2010
- Brand names
Resolves to
FSVJFNAIGNNGKK-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESO=C(C1CCCCC1)N1CC2N(CCC3=CC=CC=C23)C(=O)C1What you can answer from here — as of September 20, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Praziquantel, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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