Triclabendazole is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat infections caused by liver flukes, specifically:
Fasciola hepatica (common liver fluke)
Fasciola gigantica
Key Facts:
Drug class: Benzimidazole derivative
Mechanism of action: It binds to tubulin, disrupting the microtubule structure in the parasite. This impairs vital functions like glucose uptake, leading to the parasite’s death.
Spectrum: Unlike most benzimidazoles (which mainly target intestinal parasites), triclabendazole is highly effective against tissue-dwelling flukes, particularly in the liver and bile ducts.
Uses:
Human medicine:
Approved for fascioliasis (liver fluke infection) in humans.
In some countries, used under specific health programs or with special permission.
Veterinary medicine:
Widely used to deworm cattle and sheep infected with liver flukes.
Administration:
Oral (usually in tablet or suspension form)
Often given as a single dose, though a second dose may be required in some cases.
Side Effects:
Usually mild: nausea, abdominal pain, headache
Occasionally: elevated liver enzymes or allergic reactions due to dying parasites
Regulatory status:
Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and FDA for human use in specific conditions.
Included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines.
Let me know if you want dosing info, treatment protocols, or veterinary applications.