In rats and mice the acute LD50 was about 2,500 mg/kg. No data are available in humans. In the event of overdose a fast-acting laxative should be given.

BILTRICIDE (praziquantel) is contraindicated in patients who previously have shown hypersensitivity to the drug or any of the excipients. Since parasite destruction within the eye may cause irreversible lesions, ocular cysticercosis must not be treated with this compound.

Concomitant administration with strong Cytochrome P450 (P450) inducers, such as rifampin, is contraindicated since therapeutically effective blood levels of praziquantel may not be achieved (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS). In patients receiving rifampin who need immediate treatment for schistosomiasis, alternative agents for schistosomiasis should be considered. However, if treatment with praziquantel is necessary, rifampin should be discontinued 4 weeks before administration of praziquantel. Treatment with rifampin can then be restarted one day after completion of praziquantel treatment (see PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS).

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