Oxamniquine
Oxamniquine is an anthelmintic medication used to treat schistosomiasis (bilharzia), specifically infections caused by the parasitic flatworm Schistosoma mansoni. Originally developed by Pfizer, it works by paralyzing and killing the adult worms. It is used in both adults and children in endemic regions for this tropical parasitic disease.
Oxamniquine is an antiparasitic medication used to treat schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P02BA02
- RxNorm
- 7778
- Generic
- Oxamniquine
- Class
- atc-p02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- 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 acute and chronic schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni in adults and children. It is used in regions where this specific species of parasitic flatworm is endemic.
Oxamniquine causes paralysis of adult Schistosoma mansoni worms and appears to affect worm metabolism, leading to their detachment from blood vessel walls and eventual death. The worms are then cleared from the bloodstream.
May cause dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and occasionally neuropsychiatric effects; patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how they respond. Not effective against other Schistosoma species such as S. japonicum or S. haematobium. Should be used under medical supervision in the context of a supervised treatment program.
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