How Toxocariasis Medications Work

Toxocariasis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the dog and cat roundworm, Toxocara. The gold standard treatment for toxocariasis is Ivermectin, which works by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the parasite's nerve cells, leading to muscle paralysis and death.

How Ivermectin Works

• Ivermectin binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the parasite's nerve cells
• This binding causes an influx of chloride ions into the cell, leading to muscle paralysis and death
• As a result, the parasite is unable to move or feed, ultimately leading to its demise

Alternative Treatments

For patients who cannot tolerate Ivermectin or have severe cases of toxocariasis, alternative treatments include:

• Albendazole: a benzimidazole carbamate that works by inhibiting the parasite's microtubule function, leading to its death
• Praziquantel: an anthelmintic that works by causing the parasite to contract and eventually die
• Surgery: may be necessary for severe cases of toxocariasis, particularly when there is significant tissue damage or organ involvement