Here is the complete overview for:
💊 Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) Oral Liquid 120 mg/5 mL (Pediatric)
🧪 Nature / Drug Class
🔹 Anthelmintic
🔹 Piperazine derivative
🔹 Effective against filarial parasites
🩺 Purpose / Indications
✅ Used in treatment and prophylaxis of:
- Lymphatic Filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi)
- Loa loa (Loiasis)
- Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia (TPE)
- Can be used in pediatric filariasis treatment
- Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in endemic regions
⚙️ Advantages
✔️ Liquid form – ideal for children or patients who cannot swallow tablets
✔️ Palatable flavor in most pediatric preparations
✔️ Flexible dosing based on weight or age
✔️ Helps reduce parasite transmission in the community
📦 Common Packaging
📦 Bottle containing 60 mL / 100 mL / 150 mL
💧 Strength: 120 mg per 5 mL
⚠️ Patient Advice / Precautions
❗ Administer after food to reduce gastric upset
❗ Monitor for signs of allergic reactions or Jarisch-Herxheimer-like reactions (due to rapid parasite kill)
❗ Use caution in children with renal or hepatic disorders
❗ May be combined with antihistamines in case of hypersensitivity symptoms
💢 Common Side Effects
- Fever, nausea, vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rashes or itching
- Muscle/joint aches
- Lymph node inflammation (especially if heavy worm burden)
🧊 Storage
🌡 Store at room temperature below 25°C
🚫 Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or moisture
🔒 Keep tightly closed and out of children’s reach