Niclosamide
Niclosamide, is a well-known anthelmintic drug available under the brand name Noclocide, and is used to fight tapeworm in humans and animals. Although it is especially effective at eliminating tapeworm, it has been found ineffective in eliminating pinworms or roundworms. It was originally introduced in 1964 in the United States as a pesticide to control mollusks and snails, but was then seen as effective in humans and livestock. It is no longer commercially available in the United States or Canada.
Niclosamide works by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation in helminthes, and is essentially lethal to tapeworms on contact. The worms are then passed through the digestive tract and passed through the stool, although they are usually destroyed by the intestine and no longer recognizable.
Niclosamide is available through prescription only and is administered orally through a chewable tablet. No special instructions or diet is needed to for the dosage, which can be taken on an empty stomach. It is recommended, though, to take the tablet after a light meal like breakfast, to prevent any nausea or stomach discomfort. For patients with beef tapeworm, a one-tablet dose of 2 grams will clear up the infection. For those suffering with dwarf tapeworms, the 2-gram tablets must be taken once a day for a full seven days even if symptoms begin to fade. Sometimes, a second dosage cycle is recommended in these patients to make sure the parasite is eliminated and does not return. The drug should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Common side effects include abdominal pain, anorexia, and diarrhea. These common side effects will usually pass on their own and require no medical follow-up. More rare side effects include dizziness, rash, drowsiness, and itching. If experiencing prolonged episodes of rare side effects, it is usually best to see a doctor.