Oxamniquine

General information

Oxamniquine, in doses of 15 mg/kg or in a single oral dose of up to 15 mg/kg bd for 2 days, depending on the sensitivity of Schistosoma mansoni in the area concerned, is effective with minimal toxicity. It has no effect in Schistosoma hematobium . It is no longer given intramuscularly, because of severe pain at the injection site.

Reactions occur in up to one-third of patients and include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, amnesia, occasional behavioral disturbances (hallucinations, excitement), and even seizures; there is often some nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [ ]. Allergic manifestations include fever and pruritic rashes. Minor abnormalities of liver function and creatine kinase, proteinuria, and hematuria have been reported.

Organs and systems