Triclabendazole (brand name: Egaten) is an anthelmintic medication used to treat parasitic infections caused by liver flukes, specifically Fasciola hepatica. It is approved for use in patients aged 6 years and older. This medicine is available by prescription only and is known for its effectiveness in clearing infections that may otherwise persist without symptoms for a long time.

What is Triclabendazole?

Triclabendazole is a prescription antiparasitic drug used to treat fascioliasis, a liver and bile duct infection caused by liver flukes. The condition is often contracted by consuming contaminated water plants like watercress or algae. Once ingested, the parasites travel to the liver and grow within the bile ducts.

What are the Uses of Triclabendazole Tablet?

Triclabendazole is primarily used to treat fascioliasis, a parasitic infection caused by Fasciola hepatica (liver flukes). It is highly effective in targeting and eliminating the parasites from the liver and bile ducts, preventing long-term complications such as liver inflammation or obstruction. The medication is approved for use in adults and children aged 6 years and older.

Conditions Triclabendazole is Used to Treat

  • Fascioliasis (liver fluke infection)

Secondary Benefits of Triclabendazole

Triclabendazole is specifically indicated for fascioliasis and is not commonly used for other parasitic infections, unlike other anthelmintics like albendazole or mebendazole.

How Does Triclabendazole Work?

Triclabendazole works by targeting the liver flukes directly. It binds to the parasite's microtubules, disrupting their function and causing cell death. This action eliminates the parasites from the liver and bile ducts, helping the body to recover from the infection.

Triclabendazole Tablet Dosage

The typical dosage for triclabendazole consists of two oral doses taken 12 hours apart, with food to improve absorption. The tablets can be swallowed whole, split, or crushed and mixed with soft food like applesauce. Dosage must be followed exactly as prescribed by a doctor, and adjustments may be required for certain individuals based on age, health conditions, or severity of the infection.

  • Recommended dose: Triclabendazole is typically taken as two doses, 12 hours apart, with food.
  • Tablet form: Can be swallowed whole, split in half, or crushed and mixed with applesauce (must be eaten within 4 hours).

Note: Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

Since Triclabendazole is usually given as two doses only, missing a dose may reduce effectiveness. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.

What Happens if an Overdose?

Symptoms of overdose may include

  • Severe nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Unusual sweating
  • Abdominal pain

Seek immediate medical attention in case of overdose.

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What are the Side Effects of Triclabendazole?

Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, headache, diarrhea, fever, and decreased appetite. In some cases, patients may experience more serious reactions such as skin rash, hives, itching, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and breathing difficulties. While most side effects are temporary and manageable, medical attention should be sought if they worsen or persist.

Common Side Effects

Serious but Rare Side Effects

Consult your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects or if any symptoms worsen.

Precautions and Warnings

Before using triclabendazole, inform your doctor of any allergies, liver problems, heart conditions (like prolonged QT interval), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The drug has not been adequately studied in children under 6 years of age, and special care may be needed in elderly patients due to age-related organ function decline. Always use this medicine under medical supervision.

Who Should Avoid This Medicine?

  • Children under 6 years (safety not established)
  • Individuals with known allergy to Triclabendazole or related compounds
  • Those with a history of prolonged QT interval (a heart rhythm disorder)

Use With Caution In

  • Elderly patients with liver, kidney, or heart conditions
  • Breastfeeding women (consult your doctor; safety not fully studied)

Alcohol or Food Interactions

  • Always take with food for better absorption
  • Avoid alcohol during treatment to prevent liver strain

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Triclabendazole?

Yes. Triclabendazole is only approved for use in patients 6 years and older. Safety and efficacy have not been established in younger children.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)

Triclabendazole may interact with other antiparasitic drugs such as albendazole or mebendazole, as well as medications affecting heart rhythm or liver enzymes. It's important to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid harmful interactions or reduced efficacy.

Inform your doctor if you are taking:

  • Albendazole
  • Mebendazole
  • Any medications affecting the heart rhythm
  • Supplements or herbal products

Interactions may increase side effects or reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

How Should Triclabendazole Be Stored?

Recommended Storage Temperature for Triclabendazole

  • Store at room temperature
  • Keep away from excess heat and moisture (do not store in the bathroom)
  • Store in the original container, tightly closed

What Happens If Triclabendazole Is Not Stored Properly?

Exposure to heat, moisture, or light can reduce the medicine's effectiveness. Improper storage may also increase the risk of accidental ingestion, especially by children.

Always keep medicines out of reach of children and pets.

Triclabendazole vs Albendazole

Triclabendazole Albendazole
Triclabendazole treats fascioliasis and paragonimiasis, which are caused by liver and lung flukes. Albendazole is an anthelmintic used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infestations.
Formula: C14H9Cl3N2OS Molecular Formula: C12H15N3O2S
Sold under the brand name Egaten. Brand names include Albenza, Alworm, Andazol, Eskazole, Noworm, Zentel, Alben-G, ABZ, Cidazole, and Wormnil.
Used to treat fascioliasis (a liver and bile duct infection caused by liver flukes) in adults and children 6 years and older. Used to treat multiple types of parasitic worm infestations, including roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.

References

Human fascioliasis in Egyptian children: successful treatment with triclabendazol
Triclabendazole
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Frequently Asked Questions

Triclabendazole is used to treat fascioliasis (an infection usually in the liver and bile ducts caused by flatworms [liver flukes]) in adults and children 6 years and older. Triclabendazole is in a class of drugs called anthelmintics. It's working by killing the flatworms

It is generally not recommended to use during pregnancy. Once consult the doctor or pharmacist regarding use.

Triclabendazole is generally considered a safe drug, although, after treatment, adverse events (AEs) may occur. These events are directly proportionate to the intensity of the infection and can be classified as systemic or mechanical.

Some of the side effects of Triclabendazole may include abdominal pain, heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hives, itching, rash, lightheadedness, stomach pain, headache, shortness of breath, decreased appetite, and fever. These effects can vary from mild to severe depending on the individual.

Yes, triclabendazole for goats is used to treat liver fluke infections. Consult with a veterinarian for the appropriate dosage and treatment plan.

The triclabendazole dosage depends on the type of infection and the patient's weight. For humans, the typical dosage is 10 mg/kg body weight, but a healthcare provider should determine the exact dose.

Triclabendazole for horses is used to treat liver fluke infections. It's important to follow veterinary guidance for the correct dosage and administration.

In many places, triclabendazole over the counter is not available. It typically requires a prescription from a healthcare provider or veterinarian. Always check local regulations and consult a professional before use.

For humans, the triclabendazole dosage for humans is usually 10 mg/kg body weight, taken as a single dose. In some cases, a second dose may be required. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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