How are infections with tapeworms typically treated?

Infections with tapeworms, which are a type of cestode parasite, are typically treated with praziquantel or niclosamide. Praziquantel works by increasing the permeability of the cell membranes of the tapeworms to calcium, leading to paralysis and subsequent dislodgment from the host's intestinal lining, followed by their elimination through the stool. Niclosamide, on the other hand, acts by inhibiting the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in energy depletion and eventually the death of the parasite.

These two medications are specifically effective against tapeworms due to their unique mechanisms of action that target the characteristics of cestodes. In contrast, while other anthelmintics like albendazole and ivermectin are effective against a range of helminth infections, they are not the first-line treatments for tapeworm infections. Albendazole is generally more effective against nematodes and certain tissue-dwelling parasites, and ivermectin primarily targets nematodes and ectoparasites. Metronidazole, although useful for some protozoal infections, is not effective for treating tapeworms. Therefore, praziquantel and niclosamide are the preferred and most effective treatments for tapeworm infections.