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Is praziquantel therapy safe during pregnancy?
Ishag Adam1, El Taib Elwasila, Mamoun Homeida
1New Halfa Hospital, P.O. Box 61, New Halfa, Sudan. ishagadam@hotmail.com
Summary
Praziquantel (PZQ) therapy during pregnancy showed no adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes or infant health. This retrospective study suggests PZQ is safe for pregnant women in schistosomiasis-endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Schistosomiasis control relies on mass praziquantel (PZQ) distribution.
- Pregnant women are often excluded from PZQ treatment, missing its morbidity benefits.
- High parity in endemic areas means many women miss crucial treatment during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the safety and effects of PZQ therapy during pregnancy.
- To assess PZQ's impact on pregnancy outcomes and offspring in Sudan.
- To provide evidence for PZQ use in pregnant women in schistosomiasis-endemic areas.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of treatment records from 1990-1995 in four Sudanese villages.
- Comparison of pregnancy outcomes (abortion, preterm delivery) and infant health between women who received PZQ during pregnancy and those who did not.
- Clinical examination of newborns for congenital abnormalities.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in abortion rates between PZQ-treated and untreated pregnant women.
- No significant differences in preterm delivery rates between the two groups.
- No congenital abnormalities observed in infants born to mothers who received PZQ during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- PZQ therapy administered during pregnancy appears safe.
- PZQ treatment did not negatively impact pregnancy outcomes or infant development.
- Findings support the potential inclusion of pregnant women in PZQ treatment programs for schistosomiasis control.