BILTRICIDE (praziquantel) is indicated for the treatment of infections due to: all species of schistosoma (for example, Schistosoma mekongi, Schistosoma japonicum, Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma hematobium), and infections due to the liver flukes, Clonorchis sinensis/Opisthorchis viverrini (approval of this indication was based on studies in which the two species were not differentiated).

The dosage recommended for the treatment of schistosomiasis is: 20 mg/kg bodyweight three times a day as a one day treatment, at intervals of not less than 4 hours and not more than 6 hours. The recommended dose for clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis is: 25 mg/kg bodyweight three times a day as a one day treatment, at intervals of not less than 4 hours and not more than 6 hours. The tablets should be washed down unchewed with water during meals. Keeping the tablets or segments thereof in the mouth can reveal a bitter taste which can promote gagging or vomiting.

BILTRICIDE (praziquantel) is supplied as a 600 mg white to orange tinged, film-coated, oblong tablet with three scores. The tablet is coded with “BAYER” on one side and “LG” on the reverse side. When broken, each of the four segments contains 150 mg of active ingredient so that the dosage can be easily adjusted to the patient's bodyweight.

Segments are broken off by pressing the score (notch) with thumbnails. If ¼ of a tablet is required, this is best achieved by breaking the segment from the outer end.

BILTRICIDE (praziquantel) is available in bottles of 6 tablets.

Store below 86°F (30°C).

Manufactured by: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. Wayne, NJ 07470. Made in Germany. Distributed and Marketed by: Schering Corporation, a subsidiary of Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA. Revised: 08/10.

Last reviewed on RxList: 9/13/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.