Praziquantel in the control of Schistosoma mansoni infection in Jiga, Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract:

The curative efficacy and side effects of praziquantel were observed in patients with intestinal schistosomiasis in Jiga town, Northwestern Ethiopia. A total survey of the inhabitants (4861) was done and all those positive for S. man.soni and with no serious contraindications (1248) were treated with praziquantel, single oral dose of 40 mg per kg body weight. The drug has a cure rate of 89% , with a significant reduction in prevalence (P <0.001, OR: 3.58, CI:2. 77, 4.64) and a marked decrease in average intensity of infection (from 187 to 111 EPG). The most frequent (64.4% )' side effects were headache and dizziness, directly related to intensity of infection, and most often did not last more than 48 hours. Therefore, it is concluded that praziquantel is a safe and effective therapy for schistosomiasis and can be used as a key component in the control of the disease. [Ethiop. I. Health Dev. 1996;10(2):105-110]