Flukazole C Oral Drench

Indications

• Gastrointestinal nematode infections
• Cestode infections
• Parasitic infections in livestock
• Parasitic infections in companion animals

Dosage

Children: Refer to veterinary guidelines for specific dosing information, as it varies by species and condition.

Adults: Refer to veterinary guidelines for specific dosing information, as it varies by species and condition.

Mechanism of action

Oxyfendazole exerts its anthelmintic effect by inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin into microtubules, which is essential for the cellular structure and function of the parasites. This disruption leads to impaired glucose uptake and energy metabolism in the parasites, ultimately resulting in their death.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic profile of oxyfendazole shows that it is effective against a wide range of helminths due to its action on the parasite's microtubule formation. This leads to reduced motility and viability of the parasites. Oxyfendazole has a favorable safety margin in animals, making it suitable for treating various types of infections without significant toxicity.

Pharmacokinetics

Oxyfendazole is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within a few hours. It undergoes hepatic metabolism, with metabolites being excreted primarily via the urine and feces. The half-life of oxyfendazole can vary depending on the species and dosage form. The drug's bioavailability can be affected by the presence of food, and it is generally advisable to administer it on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.

Adverse effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Liver enzyme elevation
• Allergic reactions

Interactions

• May interact with other anthelmintics or medications that affect liver metabolism

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with liver dysfunction
• Monitor for signs of allergic reactions

Pregnancy

Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as safety has not been established.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether oxyfendazole is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Oral tablets
• Suspension

Indications

• Fascioliasis
• Infection caused by _Fasciola hepatica_
• Infection caused by _Fasciola gigantica_

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing in paediatric patients.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.

Mechanism of action

Triclabendazole acts on _Fasciola_ species through an unclear mechanism, though it is believed to involve absorption by the outer body covering of the worms. This results in a reduction of the resting membrane potential, inhibition of tubulin function, and disruption of protein and enzyme synthesis necessary for the survival of the parasites. These effects culminate in decreased motility, disruption of the worm's outer surface, and inhibition of spermatogenesis and embryonic cell development. Resistance may develop through alterations in drug uptake and metabolism.

Pharmacodynamics

Triclabendazole and its active metabolites, sulfoxide and sulfone, are effective against both immature and mature stages of _Fasciola hepatica_ and _Fasciola gigantica_. Caution is advised as the drug may prolong the QT interval, necessitating ECG monitoring in patients with a history of QT prolongation or those on other QT-prolonging medications.

Pharmacokinetics

Triclabendazole is absorbed after oral administration and is metabolized in the liver to its active metabolites. The pharmacokinetics profile reveals that these metabolites are responsible for its anthelmintic activity. The exact elimination half-life and excretion details are not provided, but changes in drug metabolism can affect the drug's efficacy and safety.

Adverse effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Rash
• Dizziness
• QT interval prolongation

Precautions

• Monitor ECG in patients with a history of QT prolongation or who are taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.
• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Pregnancy

Triclabendazole should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Animal studies have shown adverse effects.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether triclabendazole is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Oral tablet
• Suspension

Mechanism of action

Triclabendazole is an anthelmintic agent against _Fasciola_ species. The mechanism of action against Fasciola species is not fully understood at this time. In vitro studies and animal studies suggest that triclabendazole and its active metabolites (_sulfoxide_ and _sulfone_) are absorbed by the outer body covering of the immature and mature worms, causing a reduction in the resting membrane potential, the inhibition of tubulin function as well as protein and enzyme synthesis necessary for survival. These metabolic disturbances lead to an inhibition of motility, disruption of the worm outer surface, in addition to the inhibition of spermatogenesis and egg/embryonic cells. **A note on resistance** In vitro studies, in vivo studies, as well as case reports suggest a possibility for the development of resistance to triclabendazole. The mechanism of resistance may be multifactorial and include changes in drug uptake/efflux mechanisms, target molecules, and changes in drug metabolism. The clinical significance of triclabendazole resistance in humans is not yet elucidated.

Pharmacodynamics

Triclabendazole and its metabolites are active against both the immature and mature worms of _Fasciola hepatica_ and _Fasciola gigantica_ helminths. **Effect on QT interval** This drug may prolong the cardiac QT interval. Monitor ECG in patients with a history of QT prolongation or who are taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.