Anthelmintic Drugs
Anthelmintic drugs are medications used to treat infections caused by helminths, which are parasitic worms that infect the human body. These drugs work by either killing the parasites directly or expelling them from the body. Helminth infections are common in tropical and subtropical regions, and they can cause a range of health issues, from mild symptoms to severe diseases.
Uses of Anthelmintic Drugs
Spectrum of Activity: Some anthelmintics are broad-spectrum and effective against a wide range of helminths, while others are more specific to certain types of parasites.
Resistance: Resistance to certain anthelmintic drugs, particularly in veterinary medicine, is becoming an increasing concern.
Combination Therapy: Sometimes, combinations of anthelmintic drugs are used to improve efficacy and prevent resistance.
Side Effects
Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are common side effects across many anthelmintic drugs.
Allergic Reactions: Rapid killing of parasites can sometimes cause allergic reactions or exacerbation of symptoms due to the release of antigens from dying parasites.
Hematological Effects: Rarely, drugs like mebendazole can cause bone marrow suppression or liver toxicity.
Neurological Effects: Drugs like ivermectin can occasionally cause dizziness or other neurological symptoms, especially when used in large doses or in cases of heavy infection.
Benzimidazoles
Benzimidazoles bind to the beta-tubulin in parasites, disrupting the polymerization of tubulin into microtubules, which are essential for glucose uptake and cellular functions in the parasite. This leads to the death of the parasite due to starvation.
Avermectins
Avermectins bind to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of the parasite, causing hyperpolarization, paralysis, and death of the parasite.
Praziquantel
Praziquantel increases the permeability of the parasite’s cell membrane to calcium, leading to paralysis, dislodgement, and eventual death of the parasite.
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