Levamisole
Generic Details
Generic Name
Levamisole
Other Names
- Ergamisol
Drug Class
- Anthelmintic
- Immunomodulator
Chemical Formula
C11H12N2S
Molecular Weight
204.29 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Immunomodulation by stimulating the immune system
- Anthelmintic effect by paralyzing the worm
Indications
- Treatment of parasitic worm infections
- Adjunctive therapy in colorectal cancer
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral solution
Typical Dosage
- 150 mg to 300 mg orally per day
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage based on body weight and indication
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustment may be needed based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Agranulocytosis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levamisole
- History of agranulocytosis
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Immunosuppressive drugs
- Warfarin
- Fluorouracil
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe dizziness
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
Antidote for Overdose
- Symptomatic and supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Mainly excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of agranulocytosis
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
Warnings
- Risk of agranulocytosis
- Increased risk of infection
Others
- Levamisole has also been used off-label for its immunomodulatory effects in certain autoimmune conditions.