Indications 

Biltricide is a prescription medication utilized in the treatment of parasitic infections: 

• Schistosomiasis, caused by blood-dwelling worms 
• Clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis, caused by worms dwelling in or near the liver 

As an anthelmintic drug, Biltricide works to kill and paralyze parasites, causing them to detach from the blood vessel walls and allowing the body to eliminate them naturally. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Biltricide and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Talk to your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. 

Biltricide dosage may vary per individual based on their medical condition, weight, and response to the treatment. Tablets are scored and may require breaking to obtain the appropriate dose. 

Typically, Biltricide is taken 3 times with food for just 1 day, with each dose spaced 4 to 6 hours apart. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be chewed or sucked due to its bitter taste, which can cause gagging or vomiting. 

For pediatric patients under six years old, tablets may be crushed or disintegrated and mixed with semi-solid food or liquid. The mixture should be taken within one hour of preparation. 

If your condition does not get better or worsens, contact your physician. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Biltricide. If any of them persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Stomach pain 
• Nausea 
• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Joint/muscle pain 
• Loss of appetite 
• Vomiting 
• Sweating 

Serious Side Effects 

• Bloody diarrhea 
• Fever 
• Irregular/slow heartbeat 
• Seizures 

Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Biltricide may cause a severe allergic reaction. Get emergency medical care if you experience any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
 

• Rash 
• Face/tongue/throat swelling or itching 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Biltricide. Tell your doctor promptly if you experience any other effects not listed above. 

Cautions 

Before taking Biltricide, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to praziquantel, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Biltricide tablets. 

To ensure Biltricide is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Liver disease 
• Heart disease (e.g., irregular heartbeat) 
• Ocular cysticercosis (a parasitic eye infection) 
• Cerebral cysticercosis (a parasitic brain infection) 
• Seizures 

Biltricide’s efficacy can be affected by other drugs that impact its removal from the body. These drugs include: 

• Azole antifungals 
• Chloroquine 
• Cimetidine 
• Dexamethasone 
• Erythromycin 
• Rifamycins 
• St. John’s wort 
• Some anticonvulsant drugs like: 
• Carbamazepine 
• Phenytoin 
• Phenobarbital 
• Primidone 
• Others 

To avoid such drug interactions that can impact the efficacy of Biltricide or lead to unfavorable reactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Biltricide may cause drowsiness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery on the day of and the day following Biltricide administration. 

Consult your doctor to evaluate the risks and benefits of Biltricide use during pregnancy, as it should only be taken when necessary. 

Praziquantel has been found in low concentrations in human milk; however, its impact on breastfed infants or milk production remains unknown. Seek medical advice before breastfeeding when taking this medication.