Bithionol

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]

Overview

Bithionol is an anthelmintic used to treat "Anoplocephala perfoliata" (tapeworms) in horses^[1] and Fasciola hepatica (liver flukes).

Brand Names

Bithionol is investigational in the U.S. The drug can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Drug Service, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia 30333 (404-639-3670; evenings, weekends, or holidays: 404-639-2888).

Prescribing Information

Dosage

Adult Normal Dosage

Oral route 1) The recommended oral dose of bithionol for the treatment of Fascioliasis, and as alternative therapy in Paragonimiasis, is 30 to 50 milligrams/kilogram on alternate days for 10 to 15 doses.

2) Bithionol is usually given in 2 or 3 divided doses, and after meals to minimize gastrointestinal symptoms.

Pediatric Normal Dosage

Oral route 1) The recommended pediatric oral dose of bithionol for the treatment of Fascioliasis, and as alternative therapy in Paragonimiasis, is 30 to 50 milligrams/kilogram on alternate days for 10 to 15 doses.

2) Bithionol is usually given in 2 or 3 divided doses, and after meals to minimize gastrointestinal symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Initial Response

a) Fascioliasis, 2 to 9 days. b) Resolution of fever has been reported 2 days after initiation of BITHIONOL therapy in fascioliasis, with eradication of ova in stools after 9 days. c) Paragonimiasis, 3 to 5 days. (Significant improvement of hemoptysis in paragonimiasis has been reported after the third dose of oral BITHIONOL. Eradication of Paragonimus westermani ova has occurred after the fifth dose.)

Mechanism of Action

References

↑ [1], Sanada Y, Senba H, Mochizuki R, et al. Evaluation of marked rise in fecal egg output after bithionol administration to horse and its application as a diagnostic marker for equine Anoplocephala perfoliata infection. J. Vet. Med. Sci. May 2009;71(5):617-620.

[1] [1], Sanada Y, Senba H, Mochizuki R, et al. Evaluation of marked rise in fecal egg output after bithionol administration to horse and its application as a diagnostic marker for equine Anoplocephala perfoliata infection. J. Vet. Med. Sci. May 2009;71(5):617-620.

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