Indications

Levamisole is a fast acting drug which acts on nematode nerve ganglia paralysing the worm’s musculature within seconds of contact. Unable to maintain their position, the worms are then ejected by normal peristaltic movement, usually within 24 hours of levamisole administration. Although it is certain that levamisole primarily influences the neuromuscular system of nematodes, it is possible that in some helminthes the inhibition of the fumarate reductase system contributes to the anthelmintic efficacy of levamisole. Levamisole is indicated for the treatment of infections by the following gastrointestinal wormspecies:

Ascaris lumbricoides: Roundworm
Necator americanus: Hookworm
Ancylostoma duodenal: Hookworm
E nterobius vermicularis: Pinworm
Trichuris trichuria: Whipworm
Strongyloides stercoralis: Threadworm
Trichostrongylus colubriformis

Interaction

May increase toxicity of phenytoin. Increases bioavailability of ivermectin; decreases bioavailability of albendazole. Alcohol causes disulfiram-like reaction.

Contraindications

There is no absolute contra-indication to the use of Levamisole

Side Effects

Side-effects are infrequent. They are usually mild and transient and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, giddiness(dizziness) and headache. An encephalopathylike syndrome has been reported to have occurred in a few patients two or three weeks after treatment.