Piperazine citrate: mechanism of action, applications and safety

General Description

Piperazine citrate is an anthelmintic agent used to treat parasitic worm infections. It works by paralyzing the worms through the inhibition of GABA receptors in their nervous system. This paralysis prevents the worms from attaching to the intestinal walls or migrating within the body, allowing them to be expelled through bowel movements. Piperazine citrate is effective against certain types of roundworms and pinworms but may not be effective against other parasites. It is primarily used to treat ascariasis, enterobiasis, and partial intestinal obstruction caused by roundworms. When used as directed, piperazine citrate is generally safe, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications or medical conditions.

Figure 1. Piperazine citrate

Mechanism of action

Piperazine citrate is a pharmaceutical compound that primarily functions as an anthelmintic agent, which means it is used to treat parasitic worm infections in humans and animals. Its mechanism of action involves paralyzing the worms, making them easier to expel from the body. When administeed orally, piperazine citrate is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. Once inside the gastrointestinal tract, it targets and affects the nervous system of the parasites. Piperazine citrate acts by blocking specific neurotransmitters, namely GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which are essential for the parasites' muscle function and movement. By inhibiting GABA receptors, piperazine citrate disrupts the normal functioning of the parasites' neuromuscular system, leading to paralysis. This paralysis immobilizes the worms and prevents them from attaching to the intestinal walls or migrating to other parts of the body. As a result, the worms are eventually expelled from the body through bowel movements. It is worth noting that piperazine citrate is effective against certain types of roundworms and pinworms but may not be effective against other types of parasites. ¹

Applications

Piperazine Citrate is a medication that is primarily used to treat roundworm and pinworm infections. Roundworm, which is caused by the Ascaris lumbricoides parasite, affects millions of people worldwide, especially in developing countries where sanitation may be poor. Pinworm, on the other hand, is caused by the Enterobius vermicularis parasite and is a common infection among children. Piperazine Citrate is an alternative treatment for ascariasis and enterobiasis. Ascariasis is a condition that occurs when the Ascaris lumbricoides parasite infects the small intestine, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Similarly, enterobiasis, or oxyuriasis, is caused by the Enterobius vermicularis parasite and can cause itching around the anus, especially at night. In addition to treating these infections, Piperazine Citrate can also be used to treat partial intestinal obstruction by the common roundworm, which is a condition that mainly affects children. When left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications, such as malnutrition and growth failure. Overall, Piperazine Citrate is an effective medication for treating these parasitic infections, but it should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. ²

Safety

Piperazine Citrate is a medication that is commonly used as an anthelmintic, which means it is used to treat parasitic worm infections. While it is generally considered safe when used as directed, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Secondly, some individuals may experience side effects while using Piperazine Citrate. These can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and abdominal discomfort. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention. Moreover, it is crucial to note that Piperazine Citrate may interact with certain medications or medical conditions. It is necessary to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or medical conditions you have to prevent any potential interactions or complications. In summary, Piperazine Citrate is generally safe when used correctly, but it is important to follow the recommended guidelines, be aware of potential side effects, disclose any other medications or medical conditions, and consult a healthcare professional if needed. ³

Reference

1. Onuaguluchi G, Mezue WC. Some effects of piperazine citrate on skeletal muscle and central nervous system. Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther. 1987 Nov;290(1):104-16.

2. GOODWIN LG, STANDEN OD. Treatment of roundworm with piperazine citrate: antepar. Br Med J. 1954 Dec 4;2(4900):1332-1333.

3. Abiramalatha T, Mehndiratta S, Rajeshwari K, Dubey AP. Piperazine citrate induced myoclonus in a child. Indian J Pharmacol. 2013 Nov-Dec;45(6):640.

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