Treatment of taeniasis with bithionol

ABSTRACT

Ten cases infected with Taenia saginata were treated with Bithionol, 2, 2' thiobis (4,6-dichlorophenol) which is well known as an excellent anthelminthhic against paragonimiasis and their follow-up studies were carried on within 3 to 12 months after treatment. Bithionol, 50 mg dose per kg of body weight was divided into two equal dose and administered orally in 30 minutes intervals. Three hours later, this was followed with a sodium sulfate or magnesium sulfate purge. The strobilas without scolices were found in the stools after the medication and the follow-up studies have shown the complete deworming in all cases. It is well tolerated, toxic effects being uncommon and when present, limited to mild gastro-intestinal disturbances.