What it does
Levamisole is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain worms and to boost the immune system.
Commonly used for: worm infections (helminthiasis), immune system support
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:26:07 · updated 2026-07-20 11:00:12
About this medicine
Levamisole is a medication used to treat infections caused by certain worms and to boost the immune system.
What it treats
- worm infections (helminthiasis)
- immune system support
How it works
Levamisole helps to kill worms in the body and also enhances the body's immune response.
Who it's for
It is used for people with specific worm infections and those needing immune system support.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: levamizole
Levamisole is an anthelmintic agent primarily used for the treatment of various parasitic worm infections, particularly in veterinary medicine and in certain human conditions. It is a synthetic derivative of imidazothiazole and works by disrupting the metabolism of helminths. Additionally, it has been used as an immune-modulating agent in certain diseases, including colorectal cancer and autoimmune disorders.
Indications
- Ascariasis
- Hookworm infection
- Strongyloidiasis
- Immunomodulation in colorectal cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific adult dosing recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Levamisole acts by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on the muscle cells of helminths, leading to paralysis and expulsion of the parasites. It is also thought to enhance T-cell function and boost the immune system, particularly in the context of cancer therapy.
Pharmacodynamics
Levamisole exhibits its anthelmintic effects through neuromuscular paralysis of the parasites, which prevents them from attaching to the intestinal wall and allows for their elimination. Its immunomodulatory effects are attributed to its ability to enhance T-cell proliferation and stimulate interferon production, thus improving the host's immune response.
Pharmacokinetics
Levamisole is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily through cytochrome P450 enzymes, and has a half-life of approximately 3 to 5 hours. The metabolites are primarily excreted via the urine. Food intake does not significantly affect its absorption.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to levamisole or any of its components
- Severe immunosuppression
- History of agranulocytosis
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rash
- Agranulocytosis
- Hepatotoxicity
- CNS effects such as dizziness and headache
Interactions
- Increased risk of agranulocytosis when used with other myelosuppressive agents
- Possible interaction with warfarin, increasing anticoagulant effect
- Caution with concurrent use of drugs that affect the liver
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver impairment
- Monitor blood counts during therapy due to risk of agranulocytosis
- Consider potential drug interactions before initiating therapy
Pregnancy
Levamisole is classified as category C. Use is not recommended unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether levamisole 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
- Tablets
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.