Piperazine
Piperazine is an anthelmintic medication used to treat parasitic intestinal worm infections, particularly pinworm and roundworm infestations. It works by paralyzing the parasites, allowing them to be expelled from the body through normal digestive processes. While less commonly prescribed today due to newer alternatives, it remains an option for certain nematode infections.
Piperazine is an anti-parasitic medication used to treat pinworm and roundworm infections by paralyzing the parasites so they can be eliminated from the body.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P02CB01
- RxNorm
- 8340
- Generic
- Piperazine
- Class
- atc-p02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution
- 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.
Piperazine is primarily used to treat infections caused by Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) and Ascaris lumbricoides (common roundworm). It is effective against these specific parasitic nematodes in both children and adults.
Piperazine acts as an agonist at GABA receptors in the parasite's nervous system, causing paralysis of the worm's muscles. This paralysis prevents the parasite from maintaining its position in the intestinal tract, allowing it to be expelled naturally through feces.
Piperazine is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild side effects such as gastrointestinal upset or headache. It should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease or seizure disorders. A single dose is often sufficient for pinworm treatment, though a second dose may be recommended after two weeks to eliminate any newly hatched larvae.
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