Dicaris Children Tablet (Levamisole) Used to Treat Certain Types of Parasitic Worm Infections
Dicaris Children Tablet is an anti-parasitic agent used for the treatment of roundworm and hookworm infections. This medicine is not recommended for use in patients suffering from severe kidney diseases due to the increased risk of serious adverse effects.
Product Overview
Dicaris Children Tablet is a specialized anthelmintic medication containing Levamisole, specifically formulated for pediatric use. Dicaris Children Tablet is a highly effective treatment for common intestinal worm infestations in children. Beyond its primary role as a deworming agent, Levamisole is also recognized for its immunomodulatory properties, occasionally used under strict medical supervision to bolster the immune response in certain chronic conditions. This dual-action capability makes it a vital tool in maintaining pediatric gastrointestinal health.
Product Composition
- Levamisole Hydrochloride: The active anthelmintic agent (50mg in children's versions), which acts as a fast-acting paralyzing agent for parasites.
- Sucrose/Mannitol: Utilized as sweetening agents to ensure the tablet is palatable for children, improving treatment compliance.
- Fruit Flavorings: Added to mask the medicinal taste, making the pediatric formulation more acceptable to young patients.
- Magnesium Stearate: A lubricant that ensures the tablet integrity and smooth release of the active ingredient.
- Starch: Acts as a binder and disintegrant to help the tablet break down quickly for rapid absorption in the digestive tract.
Product Specification
| Feature | Details |
| Therapeutic Category | Anthelmintic / Immunomodulator |
| Target Parasites | Ascaris lumbricoides (Roundworm), Hookworm |
| Absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract |
| Peak Plasma Time | 1.5 to 2 hours after administration |
| Metabolism | Extensively metabolized in the liver |
| Excretion | Primarily eliminated via urine (70%) and feces |
Mechanism of Action
- Dicaris exerts its anthelmintic effect by acting as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist in the nerve and muscle cells of the parasite.
- This action leads to a rapid neuromuscular blockade, causing spastic paralysis of the worm.
- Once paralyzed, the intestinal worms lose their ability to attach to the host's intestinal wall and are expelled naturally through bowel movements.
- As an immunomodulator, it is believed to restore effector function in peripheral T-lymphocytes and phagocytes.
- It stimulates the formation of antibodies and enhances the protective response of the immune system when it is functioning below normal levels.
Key Benefits
- Highly effective single-dose treatment for common roundworm infections, providing a convenient solution for parents and children.
- Provides broad-spectrum activity against Ascaris lumbricoides and Hookworms, two of the most prevalent pediatric parasites.
- The pediatric-friendly dosage reduces the risk of accidental overdose compared to using adult-strength medications.
- Offers a fast-acting formula, with parasites typically expelled within 24 to 48 hours of treatment.
- Does not require fasting or a special diet before or after intake, making the deworming process simple and non-disruptive.
- Proven safety profile for children when used according to the weight-based clinical guidelines.
Precautions
| General Precaution | Details |
|---|---|
| Correct dosage only | Do not exceed recommended pediatric dose |
| Complete treatment | Ensure full course for effective deworming |
| Do not self-medicate | Improper use may reduce effectiveness |
| Give with water | Helps easy swallowing and absorption |
Medical Supervision
- Always use under pediatric or medical guidance
- Inform doctor about any existing illness or allergies
- Share child’s full medical history before use
Health Condition Precautions
- Use carefully in children with liver or kidney issues
- Caution in children with blood disorders
- Monitor if child has weakened immunity
During Treatment Care
- Maintain proper hygiene to prevent reinfection
- Wash hands before meals and after using toilet
- Keep nails trimmed and clean
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding (if applicable)
- Not usually used in pregnancy; only under doctor advice
- Consult doctor before use in breastfeeding mothers
Safety Advice
- Avoid repeated unnecessary dosing without medical advice
- Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture
Usage
The administration of Levamisole is characterized by its simplicity, often requiring only a single-dose regimen to achieve full therapeutic clearance of common worms.
Administration
Single Intake: The tablet is usually taken as a single dose, preferably in the evening after the last meal of the day.
Food Interaction: No special fasting or "purging" with laxatives is required before or after taking the medication.
Palatability: The tablet can be swallowed whole with water; for younger children, it may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of sweetened food or jam to ensure the full dose is consumed.
Repeat Treatment: While one dose is often sufficient, a follow-up stool examination is recommended after 2 weeks. If eggs are still present, a repeat treatment may be necessary.
Family Protocol: Since worm infestations spread easily within households, it is often recommended that all family members be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.
Clinical Guidance Summary
| Factor | Requirement |
| Dosing Basis | Body Weight (not just age) |
| Onset of Action | Parasites are typically expelled within 24–48 hours |
| Hygiene Note | Wash hands thoroughly and trim fingernails to prevent re-autoinfection |
| Side Effects | May cause mild nausea or dizziness; usually transient |
Uses
Primary treatment for Ascariasis, effectively eliminating large roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) from the pediatric intestinal tract.
Management of Hookworm infections (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus), helping to prevent parasite-induced anemia in children.
Eradication of mixed helminthic infestations where roundworms and hookworms coexist.
Adjunctive immunotherapy in specific pediatric conditions, such as nephrotic syndrome or certain chronic infections, to help restore normal T-cell function.
Prophylactic deworming in high-risk areas where soil-transmitted helminths are endemic, supporting overall child growth and nutritional status.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
Less Common Side Effects
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Mild diarrhea
- Skin rash or itching
- Sleep disturbance
Serious Side Effects
| Serious Side Effect | Details |
|---|---|
| Blood count changes | May cause reduced white blood cells in rare cases |
| Severe allergic reaction | Rash, swelling or breathing difficulty |
| Seizures | Rare but may occur in sensitive children |
| Severe dizziness | May affect balance and activity |
| Liver issues | Rare elevation in liver enzymes |
When to Seek Medical Help
- If severe rash or swelling occurs
- If persistent vomiting or weakness develops
- If unusual bruising or infection signs appear
- If seizures or severe dizziness are noticed
FAQs
Q: What are Dicaris Children Tablets used for?
A: Dicaris Children Tablets are used to treat intestinal worm infections in children, particularly ascariasis (roundworm infection), and to restore and enhance immune function in immunocompromised pediatric patients.
Q: How do Dicaris Children Tablets work?
A: Levamisole works by paralyzing the neuromuscular system of the worm, causing it to lose its grip on the intestinal wall and be expelled from the body naturally. It also acts as an immunomodulator by stimulating T-lymphocyte activity.
Q: What is the recommended dose of Dicaris Children Tablets?
A: The usual dose for children is 2.5 mg/kg body weight as a single dose for ascariasis, or as prescribed by the doctor depending on the condition being treated.
Q: Should Dicaris Children Tablets be taken with food?
A: Dicaris Children Tablets can be taken with or without food. Taking them with food may help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and stomach upset.
Q: How long does the treatment last?
A: For roundworm infection, a single dose is usually sufficient. For immunomodulation, the duration and frequency of dosing will be determined by the doctor based on the child's condition and response.
Q: What are the common side effects? A
: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, and headache. These are usually mild and resolve on their own after treatment.
Q: Is a single dose sufficient to eliminate worms?
A: For ascariasis, a single dose is generally effective. However, the doctor may recommend a repeat dose or stool examination after treatment to confirm complete eradication of the infection.
Q: Can Dicaris Children Tablets be used in adults?
A: Levamisole is available in adult formulations for similar indications. Dicaris Children Tablets are specifically formulated and dosed for pediatric use and should not be used as a substitute for adult formulations.
Q: Is Dicaris Children Tablet safe for very young children?
A: Use in very young children should be under strict medical supervision with careful dose calculation based on body weight to ensure safety and efficacy.
Q: What precautions should be followed during treatment?
A: Maintain good personal hygiene and sanitation to prevent reinfection, wash hands thoroughly before meals and after using the toilet, ensure all family members are screened for worm infections, and follow up with the doctor after treatment to confirm successful eradication.
Q: What should I do if my child misses a dose?
A: For single-dose treatment, contact your doctor for further guidance. For multi-dose regimens, give the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose, in which case skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.
Q: When should I consult a doctor immediately?
A: Seek immediate medical attention if the child experiences severe allergic reactions such as rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve after treatment.
Interactions
| Interaction Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | May increase risk of side effects and should be avoided |
| Other deworming medicines | Combined use may increase toxicity risk |
| Anticonvulsants | May alter effectiveness of treatment |
| Corticosteroids | May increase risk of blood-related effects |
| Blood disorder medicines | Requires caution due to immune and blood effects |
Medicine Interactions
- Inform your doctor about all medicines your child is taking
- Avoid combining with other anti-parasitic medicines unless prescribed
- Use caution with medicines affecting the immune system
Food and Lifestyle Interactions
- Give with or after food if stomach upset occurs
- Ensure proper hydration during treatment
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection
Disease Related Interactions
- Use carefully in children with liver or kidney disorders
- Caution in children with blood-related conditions
- Monitor closely if child has weakened immunity
Important Safety Advice
- Do not self-combine with other deworming treatments
- Follow exact dosage and schedule prescribed by the doctor
- Report any unusual symptoms like weakness or dizziness immediately
| Manufacturer | : | Janssen Pharmaceuticals |
| Trade Name | : | Dicaris |
| Generic Search | : | Levamisole |
| Strength | : | 50mg |
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