Generic
Levamisole
22 brands available in the market
At a glance
Levamisole is an antiparasitic medication used in the treatment of worm infections. It paralyzes and kills susceptible intestinal worms.
Description
Levamisole is the active laevo-isomer of tetramisole. It works by paralyzing susceptible intestinal worms which are then excreted from the intestines. Levamisole also enhances cellular immune responses in humans. It is effective against Ascariasis, hookworm infections, Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Trichostrongylus colubriformis.
Indications
- Ascariasis (roundworm infection)
- Hookworm infections (Ancylostomiasis)
- Mixed ascariasis-hookworm infections
- Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm)
- Trichuris trichiura (whipworm)
- Strongyloides stercoralis
- Trichostrongylus colubriformis
Therapeutic class
Anthelmintic
Pharmacological class
Antiparasitic
Pharmacology
Levamisole paralyzes susceptible intestinal worms which are then excreted from the intestines. It also enhances cellular immune responses in humans.
Mechanism of action
Paralyzes and kills intestinal worms.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Ascariasis: 150 mg as a single dose
- Mixed ascariasis-hookworm/Ancylostomiasis: 2.5 mg/kg as a single dose, repeated after 7 days in severe cases
Child Dose (Oral):
- Ascariasis: 3 mg/kg as a single dose
- Mixed ascariasis-hookworm/Ancylostomiasis: 2.5 mg/kg as a single dose, repeated after 7 days in severe cases
- Age-based dosing: 1-4 years: 1 tablet/5 mL syrup; 5-15 years: 2 tablets/10 mL; 16+ years: 3 tablets/15 mL
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take with a light meal
- Take at a fixed time
Missed dose
Not generally applicable (single dose); consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal cramps
Side effects are usually mild and transient.
Precautions & warnings
- Caution when driving or activities requiring concentration (may cause dizziness)
- Do not use during pregnancy
- Do not use if you have blood disorders
- Complete the full course, even if you feel better
Contraindications
- Pre-existing blood disorders
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypersensitivity to Levamisole
Drug interactions
- May increase toxicity of phenytoin
- Increases bioavailability of ivermectin; decreases bioavailability of albendazole
- Alcohol causes disulfiram-like reaction
Food interactions
Safety with alcohol is not known; consult your doctor (alcohol may cause disulfiram-like reaction).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Levamisole may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies have shown no teratogenic effects but use with caution. Consult your doctor.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Levamisole is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (weight and age-based).
Geriatric use
No special dose adjustment needed; no effect on driving ability.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; symptomatic and supportive measures should be employed.
Storage conditions
Keep out of reach of children; store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.
Chemical structure
Levamisole