Praziquantel/Pyrantel Pamoate

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A fixed combination of praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate, with anthelminthic activity. Upon administration, praziquantel increases the permeability of the tegument of susceptible worms, resulting in an influx and increase in intra-tegumental calcium leading to rapid contractions and paralysis of the worm's musculature. In addition, vacuolization of the tegumental syncytium and blebbing results in tegument disintegration, leads to antigen exposure and elicit host defense responses to the worm. This results in granulomas formation and phagocytosis. Pyrantel pamoate acts as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent resulting in spastic paralysis of the helminths. The parasites are then eliminated through intestinal tract peristalsis of the host.

**Synonyms:** - Drontal - Pyrantel Pamoate/Praziquantel