What is the best pharmacological treatment for Fasciolopsis (Fluke) infection?

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Last updated: May 27, 2025View editorial policy

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From the FDA Drug Label

Dogs infected with E multilocularis should be treated to prevent exposure of humans to infective eggs and to break the parasite's life cycle. The dosage of Drontal Plus Taste Tabs Tablets for removal of E. multilocularis is the same as that indicated for the removal of the other tapeworm species listed on the label Laboratory efficacy studies conducted with Drontal Plus tablets have demonstrated the recommended dosage is 100% effective.

The best drug treatment for Fluke worm (E. multilocularis) is Drontal Plus Taste Tabs Tablets at the recommended dosage, as it has been shown to be 100% effective in laboratory efficacy studies 1.

  • Retreatment of the dog at 21-26 day intervals is recommended to prevent the shedding of infectious eggs under conditions of continual exposure to wild rodents.
  • A follow-up fecal examination should be conducted 2 to 4 weeks after treatment to determine the need for retreatment.

From the Research

Triclabendazole is the best drug treatment for fluke worm infections, specifically for liver flukes, at a dose of 10 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg twice, 12 hours apart, as recommended by the WHO and recently approved by the FDA 2. The treatment of fluke worm infections, particularly those caused by liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica or F. gigantica), has evolved over the years, with triclabendazole emerging as the most effective and best-tolerated drug for this condition 3, 2. Some key points to consider when treating fluke worm infections include:

  • The standard dosage of triclabendazole for liver flukes is 10 mg/kg as a single dose or 10 mg/kg twice, 12 hours apart 2.
  • Triclabendazole has been shown to be effective in treating human fascioliasis, with a cure rate of 74% in patients who failed standard-of-care regimens 4.
  • The drug is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects reported 5, 4.
  • Resistance to triclabendazole has been reported, but the term "TCBZ resistance" should be re-evaluated using biomarkers, as patients labeled as having "TCBZ resistance" may respond to multiple regimens of TCBZ 4.
  • In cases where triclabendazole is ineffective or contraindicated, alternative medications may be considered, but triclabendazole remains the drug of choice for liver fluke infections 2, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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