Drug reference

Niclosamide

Anthelmintic · Treatment for tapeworm infections (Taenicide)

AnthelminticTreatment for tapeworm infections (Taenicide)ATC null

CDSCO approvedSchedule H

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

1 major

SEVERE in our sources

PREGNANCY

FDA category + note

Top interactions

TizanidineSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Niclosamide is a halogenated salicylanilide that kills cestodes (tapeworms) by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria, inhibiting ATP generation, and stimulating ATPase activity. This disrupts the worm's energy metabolism, causing damage to the tegument (outer covering) and making the scolex susceptible to proteolytic digestion. It is active only against adult cestodes in the intestinal lumen — not against ova or larvae — and achieves cure rates exceeding 85% for Diphyllobothrium latum and 95% for Taenia saginata.

Indications

Tapeworm infectionsintestinal Taenia solium infectionTaenia saginataTaenia soliumDiphyllobothrium latumHymenolepis nanaPin wormTaenia solium infection

Dosing

Adult: T. saginata/D. latum: 2 g as a single dose (chewed thoroughly on empty stomach). solium: 2 g as a single dose followed by a purgative 2 hours later to prevent cysticercosis.
Pediatric: 2-6 years: 1 g single dose. >6 years: adult dose.
Max dose: 2 g single dose

Pharmacokinetics

Bioavailability

Minimally absorbed from g.i.t.

Side effects

Common

NauseaLightheadednessAbdominal painPruritusMinor abdominal symptoms (occasionally)Malaise (rare)Pruritus (rare)Light headedness (rare)vomitingdizziness