Diethylcarbamazine
AnthelminticUses of Diethylcarbamazine
Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) is an antiparasitic medicine used to treat filarial infections parasitic diseases caused by thread-like worms (filariae) that are transmitted through insect bites.
Diethylcarbamazine is commonly used for:
• Lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis): Treats infection by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, which are parasitic worms that live in the lymphatic system and can cause severe swelling of the limbs (lymphoedema) if untreated.
• Loiasis (Loa loa infection): Treats infection by the Loa loa worm, which is transmitted by deer fly bites and can cause eye worm (migration of the worm across the eye) and skin swellings (Calabar swellings).
• Tropical pulmonary eosinophilia: Manages a hypersensitivity reaction to microfilariae (larval stage of filaria) in the lungs, causing cough, wheezing, and elevated eosinophils in the blood.
Side effects of Diethylcarbamazine
- Fever
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Hives
- Vomiting
- Asthma attack
How Diethylcarbamazine works
Diethylcarbamazine works by targeting and killing the larval stage (microfilariae) and in some cases the adult worms (macrofilariae) of filarial parasites.
Its exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve several actions:
- Effect on microfilariae: Diethylcarbamazine alters the surface of microfilariae the microscopic larvae circulating in the blood making them more susceptible to destruction by the body's immune system.
- Effect on parasite survival: The drug is believed to affect the survival and function of filarial parasites, helping to reduce the number of microfilariae in the bloodstream.
- Immune-mediated action: Diethylcarbamazine enhances the body's response against filarial parasites, contributing to their clearance.
- Immobilisation: Microfilariae are immobilised on the surface of blood vessel walls (endothelial surfaces), where immune cells can more effectively destroy them.
The killing of parasites can sometimes trigger a temporary immune reaction known as the Mazzotti reaction, causing fever and skin reactions. This is managed under medical supervision.
Certified content
Written By
MBBS
Reviewed By
MBBS, DNB (OBGY)
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- This medicine can be taken orally (tablet and syrup).
Age and Dose Restrictions
- This medicine should be taken with the dosage and duration as advised by the doctor.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Diethylcarbamazine, in patients with serious eye damage and in patients with a gluten intolerance, as this medicine contains gluten.
Other Medications To Avoid With This Medicine
- Avoid taking cholinergic medications (acetylcholine, atropine), potassium channel blockers (amifampridine), tricyclic antidepressants (amitryptiline), and beta-blockers (atenolol). These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of this medication.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- If you accidentally take more Diethylcarbamazine than prescribed and experience worsening of side effects or any severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital. Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, dizziness, and weakness. Take Diethylcarbamazine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- If you miss a dose of Diethylcarbamazine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time. Completing the full prescribed course is important to ensure effective clearance of the parasitic infection.
Management Of Side Effects
- Take this medicine with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and continue taking it as prescribed. If side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor for a possible treatment plan adjustment.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- This medicine can cause drowsiness as a side effect. It’s advised to refrain from driving or operating machinery after taking this medicine.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- This medicine is not recommended to be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in older adults and patients with galactosemia, glucose or galactose malabsorption syndrome or lactase deficiency and gluten intolerance.
- Dosage adjustment is required in case of patients with kidney disorders.
Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation
- Include foods with antiparasitic properties in your diet. Such foods include raw garlic, pumpkin seeds, pomegranates, beets and carrots.
- Reduce sugar intake as it promotes the growth and division of the parasites.
- Take a balanced diet to nourish the body and the brain.
- Avoid consumption of alcohol and usage of tobacco.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Diethycarbamazine safe for elderly patients?
Dosage adjustment is required for this medicine in the case of elderly patients with kidney disease.
2. Are there any interactions of Diethylcarbamazine with other medications?
Yes, this medicine can potentially interact with medications such as cholinergic medications, potassium channel blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, and beta blockers.
3. Is it safe to use Diethylcarbamazine during pregnancy?
No, this medicine is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
4. Is it safe to use diethylcarbamazine while breastfeeding?
No, this medicine is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
5. What is the use of Diethylcarbamazine?
Diethylcarbamazine is used to treat parasitic worm infections, particularly filariasis, including lymphatic filariasis and tropical pulmonary eosinophilia. It works by killing the parasites and lowering their levels in the blood, helping to control symptoms like limb swelling, fever, and allergic reactions associated with these infections. This medication helps reduce the impact of the infection and supports recovery.
Diethylcarbamazine in other salts
List of medicines for Diethylcarbamazine
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