Levamisole
Levamisole is an anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) medication primarily used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms, including roundworms, hookworms, and threadworms. Originally developed for veterinary use, it has also been utilized as an immunomodulator in certain autoimmune conditions. The drug works by paralyzing parasites, allowing them to be expelled from the body through normal digestive processes.
Levamisole is an anti-parasitic medication used to treat various worm infections by paralyzing and eliminating parasites from the body.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P02CE01
- RxNorm
- 6371
- Generic
- Levamisole
- Class
- atc-p02
- Brands
- Valcor
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Levamisole is used to treat parasitic worm infections including ascariasis (roundworm), ancylostomiasis (hookworm), and enterobiasis (pinworm). It has also been used off-label as an immunomodulatory agent in rheumatoid arthritis and was previously studied as an adjuvant in cancer treatment.
Levamisole works by acting as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in parasites, causing paralysis of their neuromuscular system. This paralysis prevents the parasites from maintaining their position in the host's intestine, resulting in their expulsion through normal peristalsis.
Levamisole may cause side effects including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness. It can rarely cause serious adverse effects including agranulocytosis and vasculitis. The medication is generally contraindicated in patients with renal impairment or those with a history of drug-induced agranulocytosis. Use during pregnancy should be carefully weighed against potential risks.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy