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Seizures and electroencephalograph changes associated with oxamniquine therapy
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|March 1, 1978
Summary
Oxamniquine, used to treat schistosomiasis mansoni, may cause seizures. This report details a case and reviews potential central nervous system effects, including epileptogenic risks.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Schistosomiasis mansoni is a parasitic disease requiring effective treatment.
- Oxamniquine is a commonly prescribed drug for schistosomiasis mansoni.
- Patients with pre-existing seizure disorders may be at increased risk.
Observation:
- A Tanzanian patient with a history of seizures experienced a grand mal seizure after receiving oxamniquine.
- This represents the first documented seizure event linked to oxamniquine use.
- Two additional cases showed transient electroencephalograph abnormalities during oxamniquine treatment.
Findings:
- Oxamniquine administration was temporally associated with a grand mal seizure in a patient with epilepsy.
- Transient electroencephalograph changes were observed in other patients undergoing oxamniquine therapy.
- The study suggests a potential link between oxamniquine and central nervous system excitability.
Implications:
- Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing oxamniquine to patients with seizure disorders.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the epileptogenic potential of oxamniquine.
- Monitoring for neurological adverse events during oxamniquine treatment is recommended.