Use of praziquantel against schistosomiasis: a review of current status

Praziquantel therapy has become an important component of any programme directed towards schistosomiasis control. This disease being prevalent in many disadvantaged countries, where the means and resources are limited, the strategies for its control on a large scale are also beset with various other constraints. In this review, the potentials of praziquantel therapy in containing the intensities, prevalences and schistosomiasis-associated morbidities in endemic areas of different geographical and epidemiological settings are examined. By and large, regular community-based treatment produces a longer term favourable impact on infection levels and morbidity, but the impact on the disease transmission appears limited. Children constitute a high risk group in schistosomiasis. They are usually subjected to more rapid and intense reinfection, but they also appear more responsive to praziquantel therapy in preventing or reversing the effects of the disease. Modern techniques used in the assessment of impact of praziquantel treatment in schistosomiasis control are outlined.