What is the mechanism of action of praziquantel?

Praziquantel operates primarily through the mechanism of increasing membrane permeability to calcium ions in schistosomes and other trematodes. This action leads to a significant influx of calcium into the parasites, causing intense contraction of their muscles, dislodging them from their host tissues, and ultimately leading to their death.

The increase in calcium permeability disrupts the stability of the parasite's muscle structure, which compromises its ability to adhere to the host's tissues, contributing to the expulsion of the worm from the body. This mechanism is particularly effective against a variety of helminth infections, specifically schistosomiasis and certain types of tapeworms.

This understanding is important for recognizing how praziquantel differs from other antiparasitic agents that might work through distinct mechanisms, such as paralyzing the worms through neurotoxicity or inhibiting critical metabolic pathways like protein synthesis or glucose uptake.