Praziquantel works by causing severe spasms and paralysis of the worms' muscles. This paralysis is accompanied - and probably caused - by a rapid Ca 2+ influx inside the schistosome. Morphological alterations are another early effect of praziquantel.
What is the mechanism of action of praziquantel and how might Resistance strike?
Although PZQ has been the mainstay treatment for schistosomiasis for many years, its precise mechanism of action remains unknown. When schistosomes come in contact with PZQ in vitro, they immediately undergo a rapid influx of Ca2+ accompanied by an intense muscular paralysis.
What is the mechanism of action of albendazole?
The principal mode of action for albendazole is by its inhibitory effect on tubulin polymerization which results in the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules.
What does praziquantel do to parasites?
Praziquantel belongs to a class of drugs known as anthelmintics. It works by killing the parasites. It also paralyzes the parasites, causing them to release their hold on the blood vessel walls so the body can remove them naturally.
How does praziquantel work calcium?
Early studies demonstrated that PZQ disrupts calcium ion homeostasis in the worm and the current consensus is that it antagonises voltage-gated calcium channels. It is hypothesised that disruption of these channels results in uncontrolled calcium ion influx leading to uncontrolled muscle contraction and paralysis.
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