Helmisole

The following doses of Levamisole are given as a single administration, preferably after a light meal. Age 1-4 year : 1 Tablets or 5 ml Syrup Age 5-15 year : 2 Tablets or 10 ml Syrup Age 16 year and over : 3 Tablets or 15 ml Syrup In cases of severe hookworm infection it is suggested that a second standard dose be given one or seven days after the first, whichever timing is feasible.

Levamisole is the active laevo-isomer of tetramisole. It works by paralysing susceptible intestinal worms which are then excreted from the intestines. Levamisole also enhances cellular immune responses in humans.

Side-effects are infrequent. They are usually mild and transient and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, giddiness(dizziness) and headache. An encephalopathylike syndrome has been reported to have occurred in a few patients two or three weeks after treatment.

There is no absolute contra-indication to the use of Levamisole

Effect on ability to drive or operate machinery : There is no evidence to suggest that Levamisole , used for anthelmintic purpose, will produce sedation. Mild and transient giddiness is an infrequent side-effect of treatment. No precautions are suggested concerning the ability to drive or operate machinery. In case of concurrent microfilaraemia transient fever may occur.

May increase toxicity of phenytoin. Increases bioavailability of ivermectin; decreases bioavailability of albendazole. Alcohol causes disulfiram-like reaction.