diethylcarbamazine

Last reviewed 01/2018

Seek expert advice.

Diethylcarbamazine is effective against microfilariae and adults which cause:

  • loasis
  • Wucheria bancrofti
  • Brugia malayi

Cautions:

  • close medical supervision in early phase of treatment which is commenced with a low dose to minimise reactions
  • causes gross exacerbation of symptoms and signs of Onchocerciasis

Side-effects:

  • in heavy Lao lao infections there is a risk of encephalopathy and treatment must be given as an in-patient
  • in heavy infections there may be a febrile reaction

Routes of administration;

  • oral