Prescribing Details
Description
No Data
Uses
Levamisole is a fast acting drug which acts on nematode nerve ganglia paralysing the worm's musculature within seconds of contact. Unable to maintain their position, the worms are then ejected by normal peristaltic movement, usually within 24 hours of levamisole administration. Although it is certain that levamisole primarily influences the neuromuscular system of nematodes, it is possible that in some helminthes the inhibition of the fumarate reductase system contributes to the anthelmintic efficacy of levamisole.
Etrax ® is indicated for the treatment of infections by the following gastrointestinal worm species :
Trichostrongylus colubriformis
Etrax ® is indicated for the treatment of infections by the following gastrointestinal worm species :
Ascaris lumbricoides
- Roundworm
Necator americanus
- Hookworm
Ancylostoma duodenal
- Hookworm
Enterobius vermicularis
- Pinworm
Trichuris trichuria
- Whipworm
Strongyloides stercoralis
- Threadworm
Trichostrongylus colubriformis
Indications
No Data
Dosage and administration
The following doses of Etrax ® are given as a single administration, preferably after a light meal.
In cases of severe hookworm infection it is suggested that a second standard dose be given one or seven days after the first, whichever timing is feasible.
| Patient's age In years | Number of Tablets | Dose of Syrup |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 1 | 5 ml |
| 5-15 | 2 | 10 ml |
| 16 and over | 3 | 15 ml |
In cases of severe hookworm infection it is suggested that a second standard dose be given one or seven days after the first, whichever timing is feasible.
Use in pregnancy & lactation
Use in pregnancy : Although studies in animals have shown that Etrax ® produces no teratogenic effects, current medical practice requires that the benefits of any drug used during pregnancy should be weighed against the possible dangers.
Geriatric use
No Data
Precautions
In case of concurrent microfilaraemia transient fever may occur.
Side effects
Side-effects are infrequent. They are usually mild and transient and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, giddiness(dizziness) and headache. An encephalopathy-like syndrome has been reported to have occurred in a few patients two or three weeks after treatment.
Contraindications
There is no absolute contra-indication to the use of Etrax ®.
Effect on ability to drive or operate machinery : There is no evidence to suggest that Etrax ® , used for anthelmintic purpose, will produce sedation. Mild and transient giddiness is an infrequent side-effect of treatment. No precautions are suggested concerning the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Effect on ability to drive or operate machinery : There is no evidence to suggest that Etrax ® , used for anthelmintic purpose, will produce sedation. Mild and transient giddiness is an infrequent side-effect of treatment. No precautions are suggested concerning the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Drug interactions
No Data
Overdose
Counter possible anticholinesterase activity with e.g. atropine. Control blood pressure and respiration . Do not use sedatives.
Preparation
No Data
Pharmaceutical precautions
Tablet : Store in room temperature and protect from moisture.
Syrup : Store in room temperature and protect from light.
Syrup : Store in room temperature and protect from light.
Presentation
Etrax ® Tablets:
White, round tablets, engraved with 'Etrax' in one side; each tablet contains 47.2 mg Levamisole Hydrochloride BP ( equivalent to 40 mg levamisole).
Etrax ® Syrupv :
Red, raspberry flavoured syrup; each 5 ml contains 47.2 mg Levamisole Hydrochloride BP ( equivalent to 40 mg levamisole ).
Package quantities
Etrax ® Tablet :
Cartons of 100 tablets in strips.
Etrax ® Syrup :
Bottles of 30 ml syrup.
