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Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma. People become infected when they wade or swim in freshwater containing infective larvae. It occurs in tropical and subtropical regions and can lead to lasting inflammation and organ damage.

Medicine used to treat Schistosomiasis

Biltricide

Praziquantel

600mg

Praziquantel is the active ingredient in Biltricide, a tablet for schistosomiasis and liver flukes. You can choose from one strength and several pack sizes. You see the price per tablet for each option.

FromUS$2.34/ tabletView

Key points

  • Blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma cause the infection.
  • The chronic phase can continue for years without obvious symptoms.
  • Biltricide tablets contain praziquantel 600 mg and are listed for schistosomiasis and liver flukes.

Causes and exposure

Freshwater contact is the route of infection. Larvae penetrate the skin while a person wades or swims in water where they live. The early stage may produce an itchy rash at the point of entry.

Symptoms

Within weeks of exposure, some people develop fever, chills, aching muscles and a cough as the parasites move through the body. In chronic infection, the immune response to eggs lodged in tissue can inflame the liver, intestines or bladder. Over time this can damage organs, and symptoms may be absent for years.

Treatment

The standard treatment is praziquantel, which acts against all major Schistosoma species. A single-day course clears adult worms reliably. It belongs to the antiparasitics class. Biltricide tablets contain praziquantel 600 mg and are listed for schistosomiasis and liver flukes. Pharmacy partners in India ship to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

When to seek medical advice

Seek medical assessment after freshwater contact in an endemic area if symptoms appear. Diagnosis is confirmed by testing stool, urine or blood before treatment starts.

Further reading

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