Pharmacodynamics

Niclosamide is an antihelminth used against tapeworm infections. It may act by the uncoupling of the electron transport chain to ATP synthase. The disturbance of this crucial metabolic pathway prevents creation of adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP), an essential molecule that supplies energy for metabolism.

Mechanism of action

Niclosamide works by killing tapeworms on contact. Adult worms (but not ova) are rapidly killed, presumably due to uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation or stimulation of ATPase activity. The killed worms are then passed in the stool or sometimes destroyed in the intestine. Niclosamide may work as a molluscicide by binding to and damaging DNA.

Research

Niclosamide is being studied in a number of types of cancer.Niclosamide along with oxyclozanide, another anti-tapeworm drug, was found in a 2015 study to display "strong in vivo and in vitro activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)".

Various studies have shown that Niclosamide has the potential to counteract various viral infections, at least in experimental conditions. For instance, it has been shown that it impair the replication of Hepatitis E virus.On July 1, 2020, Danish biotech company UNION started a clinical study using niclosamide in the treatment of COVID-19.There is another study that investigated the use of niclosamide as a treatment for COVID-19.

In 2018, niclosamide was observed to be a potent activator of PTEN-induced kinase 1 in primary cortical neurons.As PINK1 dysfunction is associated with a form of Parkinson's disease,this quality makes niclosamide and derivative compounds attractive as research tools and potential treatment avenues for the condition.

Side effects

Side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, and itchiness.Rarely, dizziness, skin rash, drowsiness, perianal itching, or an unpleasant taste occur. For some of these reasons, praziquantel is a preferable and equally effective treatment for tapeworm infestation.[citation needed] Important Note: Niclosamide kills the pork tapeworm and results in its digestion. This then may cause a multitude of viable eggs to be released and may result in cysticercosis. Therefore, a purge should be given 1 or two hours after treatment. CNS cysticercosis is life-threatening condition and may require brain surgery.