Niclosamide
Niclosamide is an anthelmintic medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, particularly tapeworm infestations. It works by disrupting the energy production in parasites, causing them to die. The drug is effective against several species of tapeworms including Diphyllobothrium, Taenia, and Hymenolepis.
Niclosamide is an oral anti-parasitic medication used to eliminate tapeworm infections by disrupting parasite energy metabolism.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P02DA01
- RxNorm
- 7402
- Generic
- Niclosamide
- Class
- atc-p02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- 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.
Treatment of cestodiasis (tapeworm infections) including Diphyllobothrium latum (fish tapeworm), Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm), Taenia solium (pork tapeworm), and Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm). It is not effective against flukes or roundworms.
Niclosamide acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract and works by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria of parasites, leading to depletion of ATP and death of the worm.
Taken orally as tablets, typically chewed or crushed for better absorption. Side effects are generally mild and may include nausea, abdominal discomfort, or dizziness. Patients should follow hygiene measures to prevent reinfection. A single course of treatment is usually sufficient, though follow-up stool examinations may be recommended.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy