Diethylcarbamazine Citrate Tablets IP 100mg Uses
Diethylcarbamazine Citrate is an anthelmintic medicine primarily used to treat filariasis, a parasitic infection caused by filarial worms (Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori). It is also effective against tropical pulmonary eosinophilia and loiasis (African eye worm). This medication helps eliminate microfilariae (larval forms) from the blood and tissues, reducing symptoms and preventing disease progression.
How Diethylcarbamazine Citrate works
Diethylcarbamazine Citrate works by sensitizing the microfilariae to the body's immune system, making them more susceptible to attack by white blood cells. It also inhibits the metabolism of the parasites, leading to their death. The drug does not directly kill adult worms but reduces the number of microfilariae, thereby interrupting the transmission cycle and alleviating symptoms.
Common side effects of Diethylcarbamazine Citrate
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Joint or muscle pain
- Skin rash or itching
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue
These side effects are often due to the body's reaction to dying parasites and may be more pronounced in patients with high parasite loads.
Expert advice for Diethylcarbamazine Citrate
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or stop early.
- It is usually taken after meals to reduce stomach upset.
- Drink plenty of fluids during treatment to help flush out parasites.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Do not use this medicine for conditions other than those prescribed.
- If you experience severe allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat), seek immediate medical attention.
Jan Aushadhi price and availability
Diethylcarbamazine Citrate Tablets IP 100mg are available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India at an affordable price of ₹17.00 for a strip of 30 tablets. This generic version offers the same quality and efficacy as branded alternatives but at a fraction of the cost. You can find it at your nearest Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) outlet.
Safety note
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication. Verify the composition, strength, and suitability of this medicine with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not self-medicate or share this medicine with others.