Information about Hetrazan (Diethylcarbamazine)
Hetrazan, the brand name for diethylcarbamazine (DEC), is an anti-parasitic medication primarily used to treat filarial infections and certain types of tropical diseases. DEC works by disrupting the metabolism of the parasites, leading to their death and subsequent elimination from the host's body.
Product Highlights
- Effective in treating infections caused by Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia malayi.
- Used for the treatment of African eye worm (Loa loa).
- While ivermectin is typically preferred, DEC may be used in specific scenarios.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Particularly useful in endemic regions for preventing the progression of lymphatic filariasis.
- Lowers the load of microfilariae in the bloodstream, reducing transmission and associated symptoms.
- Generally has a good safety profile when used as directed.
Direction of Use
- Typically prescribed as a daily oral dose over a course of several days, depending on the specific infection and severity.
- May be taken with food to help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Always follow the prescribing physician’s instructions for dosage and duration.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and allergic reactions.
- Can cause a reaction to dead parasites (known as Mazzotti reaction), which can lead to fever, rash, and joint pain in individuals with high levels of microfilariae.
Avoid Hetrazan (Diethylcarbamazine) If
- The safety of use during pregnancy and lactation has not been well established.
- If there is a known hypersensitivity to diethylcarbamazine or any of its components.
- Caution is advised in patients with significant liver impairment.
