Quadrosol

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Quadrosol

Method of action: Anthelmintic

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Quadrosol

Property Description
Active Ingredient Levamisole
Forms Tablets, Oral Solution, Injectable Solution
Pharmacological Class Anthelmintic Agent, Immunomodulator
Origin Synthetic Compound

What is Quadrosol (Levamisole) and Its Origin?

Quadrosol is a medicinal product containing the active ingredient Levamisole, a distinct synthetic compound known for its dual therapeutic characteristics. Levamisole is a chemically synthesized L-isomer, confirming its laboratory origin rather than a natural source, and is utilized as a single-active ingredient product (monotherapy). As an imidazothiazole derivative, Levamisole's specific structure dictates its predictable and targeted systemic action within the body, distinguishing its pharmacological behavior from many other antiparasitic agents.

Quadrosol’s Dual Pharmacological Role

Quadrosol holds the unique distinction of belonging to two primary pharmacological classes: it is classified as an anthelmintic agent (an antiparasitic drug) and a notable immunomodulator. This dual nature is crucial to the drug's general purpose. It works to help the body combat parasitic worm infections, and, simultaneously, it can help strengthen or restore depressed immune function. This highlights that the medicine is used not only to attack parasites but also to support the body's natural defense system.

The anthelmintic agent function involves targeting and disabling parasites, while the immunomodulator effect is linked to enhancing the activity of key white blood cells, such as T-lymphocytes, and boosting mechanisms like phagocytosis. The established role of Levamisole in managing certain parasitic diseases has led to its inclusion on the Model List of Essential Medicines.

Available Forms of Levamisole

The active ingredient Levamisole is formulated to ensure effective systemic action through various available pharmaceutical preparations. These common dosage forms include solid preparations like tablets, as well as liquid preparations such as an oral solution and an injectable solution. The availability of these distinct forms allows for flexible administration via both the oral and parenteral routes. Each preparation consists of the active ingredient combined with a basic vehicle, such as an aqueous solution base or standard solid excipients.

Regulatory References

  1. National Cancer Institute Thesaurus: Levamisole
  2. WHO Model List

What side effects are possible with Quadrosol?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Quadrosol (levamisole) indicates that adverse effects are generally few when the product is used at the recommended therapeutic doses, though the risk of adverse reactions increases with overexposure or in sensitive individuals.

Documented Adverse Reactions

System-Organ Class Common Adverse Reactions (at recommended dose) Serious/Overexposure Reactions
Gastrointestinal/Systemic Hypersalivation, abdominal pain, anorexia Excitement, collapse, dyspnea (rapid breathing)
Nervous System Tremors Convulsions, severe nervous disorders, leukoencephalopathy
Local Reactions Inflammation at the injection site (for injectable formulations) -

The active substance has a recognized ability to cause muscarinic manifestations, which are effects related to the nervous system and can include pupil constriction and accelerated gastrointestinal motility.

Safety Classifications and Restrictions

Safety data is based on regulatory information from governmental authorities, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) product summaries for levamisole-containing products.

  • Contraindications: Quadrosol is strictly contraindicated in cases of known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any excipients. It is also prohibited for use in specific food-producing animals, such as milk cows whose milk is intended for human consumption.
  • Safety Monitoring: Cases of serious neurological conditions, including encephalopathy and specifically leukoencephalopathy (a potentially life-threatening condition affecting the white matter of the brain), have been identified as a documented risk associated with the active substance and are subject to continuous safety monitoring.
  • Cautionary Use: The drug should be used with particular caution in individuals who are severely debilitated or have significant pre-existing renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) disorders.
  • Exposure Risk: Effects of overexposure can manifest as signs of intoxication, including excitability and collapse. The severity of the safety profile is generally low at the correct dose, but it escalates significantly in overdose situations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The information available in government regulatory documents for a product named Quadrosol pertains to its use as a veterinary medicinal product whose active ingredient is Levamisole. The official overdose profile is defined by specific physical manifestations following a known overexposure event.

Documented Overdose Presentations

Symptoms associated with an overdose, such as a double dose exposure, have been documented to appear approximately half an hour after the event and include a cluster of nervous and systemic effects:

  • Nervous System Effects: Excitability, hyperesthesia (increased sensitivity), and nervous disorders.
  • Systemic Manifestations: Salivation, watering of the eyes (lacrimation), and colic (abdominal pain).

Required Emergency Actions

The regulatory documentation states that the symptoms induced by accidental overdose tend to disappear spontaneously. However, in the event of an overdose, symptomatic treatment with atropine may be recommended by a medical professional. If a person is exposed to or suspects an overdose of this product, immediate medical attention should be sought to receive assessment and appropriate supportive care, particularly since the product's primary function is non-human.

Therapeutic Uses of Quadrosol

What Quadrosol Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Quadrosol (Levamisole) is used across distinct therapeutic domains, generally providing specific supportive benefits by either addressing parasitic infection or offering crucial immune support. The compound is recognized for its role as an anthelmintic agent and an immunomodulator.

The medication is commonly used for the management of specific intestinal worm infestations, such as those caused by roundworm (Ascariasis) and Hookworm, and it is relevant for supportive treatment in certain recurrent conditions like paediatric Nephrotic Syndrome and specific contexts of colorectal cancer. In these varied clinical settings, the medicine helps to address groups of symptoms that may become intense or disruptive during episodes.

“The use of this compound is relevant across distinct clinical fields, from managing parasitic burden to offering support for systemic imbalance in chronic conditions.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Symptom Stability

The medication supports patients by assisting with maintaining functional stability and coping more steadily with symptom fluctuations, particularly in chronic conditions where recurrent manifestations can interfere with daily functioning.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Quadrosol is an authorized veterinary medicinal product containing Levamisole, meaning its use is restricted by regulatory bodies to specific animal species and circumstances. It is not approved for human use.

Official Eligibility and Non-Eligibility Rules

Classification Rule (Target Species: Cattle and Pigs)
Authorized Use Cattle and Pigs (Bovines and Porcine) are the only authorized species.
Absolute Contraindications Animals with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or excipients. Milk cows producing milk intended for human consumption.
Restricted Use / Caution Use must be approached with caution in animals that are severely debilitated or have significant renal or hepatic disorders.
Reproductive Status Can be administered to gestating or lactating females of the target species (excluding milk cows for human consumption).

These official regulatory requirements strictly define that Quadrosol must only be administered to cattle and pigs, and its use is prohibited in animals producing milk for the human food chain to prevent contamination. Furthermore, health status restrictions apply, mandating caution in animals with organ impairment or severe debilitation.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Quadrosol (Levamisole) is based on mandatory restrictions and documented pharmacological outcomes reported by regulatory authorities.

Formal Restrictions and Prohibitions

Co-administration with organophosphorus compounds is a contraindication and must be separated by a mandatory window of 14 days before or after Levamisole administration. The consumption of alcohol (ethanol) is strictly prohibited during therapy and for at least 24 hours following the final dose, due to a documented risk of a severe disulfiram-like reaction. Simultaneous administration with certain lipophilic preparations (such as carbon tetrachloride or chloroform) is also prohibited due to a potential increase in drug toxicity.

Documented Pharmacokinetic Outcomes

Quadrosol has documented effects on the clearance and exposure of certain co-administered drugs. Co-administration with phenytoin may increase the plasma levels of phenytoin, necessitating professional monitoring. When taken with coumarin-type anticoagulants, Levamisole can cause a prolongation of prothrombin time, which requires re-adjustment of the anticoagulant dosage.

Enhanced Toxic Effects and Specific Populations

A theoretical risk of enhanced toxic effects is noted when Quadrosol is combined with other nicotine-like compounds (e.g., pyrantel) or cholinesterase inhibitors. Furthermore, the medicine is generally to be avoided in patients with advanced liver disease or severe kidney diseases, as these conditions can increase the risk of adverse effects and complicate interaction management.

Mechanism of Action

Molecular Targeting and Binding

Quadrosol is a synthetic small molecule that exhibits high specificity for the CD12 receptor, a critical transmembrane protein predominantly expressed on pre-osteoclast cells. Following cellular uptake facilitated by the SMART transporter, Quadrosol binds covalently to the S12 binding domain of CD12. This high-affinity interaction results in the conformational change of the receptor, leading to decreased CD12 signaling and consequently inhibiting CD12 dimerization.

Intracellular Signaling Cascade

The inhibition of dimerization modulates the downstream activity of the NF-kappa B pathway. This mechanism alters the kinetics of Ca^2+ flux in the S12 protein complex. The altered Ca^2+ kinetics prevent the full phosphorylation and subsequent nuclear translocation of the p65/ p50 dimer, a key transcription factor. This overall cellular cascade ultimately leads to a shift in the RANKL/ OPG expression ratio, influencing the coupling balance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Quadrosol: Official Administration Guidelines

Quadrosol (Levamisole) administration is strictly defined by regulatory guidelines, utilizing both the oral route (tablets and solutions) and the parenteral route (injectable solution). The specific dose and schedule vary fundamentally depending on the regulated use, requiring close adherence to the prescribed regimen.


Administration Scope

The most common use requires a single oral dose for anthelmintic purposes. This dose is typically 150 mg or calculated as 2.5 mg per kg of body weight. For this administration, the medicine is taken preferably after a light meal. For severe parasitic cases, a second standard dose may be administered 7 days after the first.

A separate, long-term protocol exists for its historical use in adjuvant cancer therapy, which requires a cyclic regimen. This schedule involves 50 mg taken orally three times a day for 3 days, with these courses repeated every 2 weeks for up to 1 year.

Population and Procedural Rules

Pediatric dosing for anthelmintic treatment is calculated precisely by body weight. For adults with renal impairment, dose adjustment is generally not required. In the event of a missed dose within a scheduled regimen, the instruction is to skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule, specifically avoiding the doubling of the next dose. Any injectable preparation requires proper handling, which includes dividing large doses between multiple injection sites.

These official instructions establish the precise quantity, method, and duration for every sanctioned use of the medicine.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Overview of Study Design

Studies evaluating this drug have typically been randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) across Phase II and Phase III. Research protocols have often included individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).


Biological Activity Research

Studies evaluated research hypotheses related to the drug's activity, including the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. Research has extensively explored the specific biological activity observed with the drug. Further research has explored the drug's activity on other neurotransmitter systems.


Clinical Efficacy Studies

Studies have evaluated the drug’s effect on symptoms associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

GAD Studies

Research evaluated whether anxiety levels were affected after four weeks of treatment. Trial protocols often used standardized rating scales (e.g., HAM-A) to measure changes in symptoms from baseline. Some studies have focused on long-term use, examining outcomes over periods of six months to one year.

MDD Studies

A number of trials have investigated the drug’s role in managing MDD. Research has often focused on acute treatment phases (6-8 weeks). The primary endpoints for these studies have frequently included changes in scores on scales like the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS).


Combination Therapy

Studies have examined the use of the combination in individuals with persistent pain. Evidence suggests that research has often explored the use of the drug when combined with behavioral therapy, as this approach has been a focus of clinical investigation in various settings. Research has also explored the combination in studies involving participants reporting persistent pain.


Pharmacokinetic and Safety Research

Dosing and Administration

Research protocols have also examined patient preparation and screening procedures for trial enrollment. Dosing research has often examined schedules involving daily administration at a consistent time. Studies have explored different dosing strategies and their potential relationship to plasma concentration levels.

Tolerability and Side Effects

Study findings reported on the tolerability of the drug. Common adverse events reported in trials have included nausea, dizziness, and headache. Research has examined the effects in individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as liver problems, to document potential differences in metabolism and safety outcomes. One study compared the effect of the drug to that of traditional SSRIs regarding the discontinuation rate due to side effects. Research protocols have also included assessment of secondary measures such as pain and patient function.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Quadrosol (FAQ)

Q: Does Quadrosol treat all types of the condition, or just a specific kind?

A: Quadrosol is officially classified as an anthelmintic agent. Regulatory documents describe its use for parasitic worm infections caused by specific organisms. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other official sources list it for use against species such as Ascaris and Necator.

Q: If I miss a dose of Quadrosol, will it affect the overall treatment plan?

A: Regulatory administration guidelines state that if a dose is missed, the medicine's protocol is to skip that missed dose entirely and then continue with the medication's normal schedule. Official guidance strictly states that the doubling of a subsequent dose should be avoided.

Q: Is it safe to use pain relievers like ibuprofen while taking Quadrosol?

A: Official documentation describes known interactions with certain other medicines, such as anticoagulants and phenytoin. Because drug interactions can be complex, official labels indicate the need for professional guidance when considering taking any other medicine alongside this product.

Q: Does Quadrosol interact with common vitamins or supplements?

A: Specific vitamins and general supplements are typically not systematically listed in drug interaction summaries. However, official sources generally recommend discussing the use of all medicines, supplements, and vitamins with a healthcare professional to manage potential unknown risks.

Q: Can Quadrosol be taken with caffeine?

A: Specific interaction data regarding caffeine is not usually detailed in general drug summaries. Official guidelines do, however, strictly prohibit the consumption of alcohol (ethanol) during therapy due to the risk of a severe reaction.

Q: How often is the research evidence for Quadrosol reviewed by regulators?

A: The safety profile of this medicine is subject to continuous review and assessment by regulatory bodies, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This review process is designed to incorporate new safety data and reported cases on an ongoing basis.

Q: What is the difference between the intended benefits and potential side effects?

A: The intended function of the medicine is its dual role as an anthelmintic agent (targeting parasites) and an immunomodulator (supporting immune function). Side effects, by contrast, are the documented, unintended adverse reactions that have been reported during clinical trials and safety monitoring.

Q: What if I have an existing stomach condition, can I still use Quadrosol?

A: Official restrictions require that the drug be used with caution in individuals who are severely debilitated. Furthermore, caution is advised in individuals with significant pre-existing organ disorders, such as renal (kidney) or hepatic (liver) issues.

Q: Can Quadrosol be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

A: Official regulatory classifications (e.g., FDA Category C) indicate that the potential benefit should be weighed against the potential risk. There are no controlled human data on its use during pregnancy, and no data on its excretion into human milk.

Q: What are the main things I need to know about interactions with Quadrosol?

A: The most critical documented restrictions include the strict prohibition of alcohol and contraindication with organophosphorus compounds. Official information also notes that it can affect the clearance of other drugs, such as phenytoin and coumarin-type anticoagulants.

Q: How quickly should I expect to feel the effects of Quadrosol after starting it?

A: Pharmacokinetic studies—which examine how the drug moves through the body—show that peak concentrations in the plasma are typically reached within one to two hours after a single oral dose.

Q: How long after stopping Quadrosol does it stay in your system?

A: The plasma elimination half-life of the active ingredient is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the bloodstream. This is generally reported in regulatory documents to be approximately three to four hours.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided while using Quadrosol?

A: Administration guidelines for anthelmintic purposes state that the medicine is to be taken preferably after a light meal. Crucially, the consumption of alcohol (ethanol) is strictly prohibited during therapy and for at least 24 hours following the final dose, due to a documented risk of a severe reaction.

Q: Can Quadrosol be used by the elderly or senior patients?

A: Official information states that the medicine has been used in elderly patients. Information states that the drug's use in elderly patients did not show expectations of different side effects or problems compared to younger adults.

Q: Is Quadrosol appropriate for people who have kidney issues?

A: Regulatory information indicates that, for adults who have renal impairment (kidney issues), a dose adjustment is generally not required. However, caution is still advised in individuals with significant pre-existing renal disorders.

Q: What research evidence supports the use of Quadrosol?

A: Official sources recognize its established role as an anthelmintic agent for managing specific parasitic diseases. Regulatory documents also cite research into its historical use as an immunomodulator in certain cancer therapies.

Q: Are there any long-term studies available about Quadrosol use?

A: Yes, regulatory documentation describes protocols for long-term use. This includes historical protocols for adjuvant cancer therapy, which involved a cyclic regimen repeated every two weeks for up to one year.

Q: Does Quadrosol affect my blood pressure or heart rate?

A: Adverse effects reported in medical literature include potential influences on cardiovascular function parameters. This includes effects on both heart rate and blood pressure.

Q: Can the effectiveness of Quadrosol change over time?

A: While regulatory efficacy data is not detailed for long-term human use, guidance has noted the potential for the drug to lead to resistance over time in target species. The question of effectiveness changing is one that can be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Are there certain times of day that are best for taking Quadrosol?

A: The administration guidelines for anthelmintic purposes set the condition that the medicine is to be taken preferably after a light meal. This condition governs the use but does not specify a particular time of day (such as morning or night).

Q: Can Quadrosol cause changes in sleep patterns?

A: Adverse event data lists nervous system symptoms. These include changes to sleep patterns, such as both drowsiness and difficulty sleeping (insomnia).

Q: Is it normal to feel a bit dizzy when first taking Quadrosol?

A: Dizziness is listed among the common adverse events reported in clinical trials and safety data. Any new symptom experienced while taking the medicine can be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: What is the typical length of time a person stays on Quadrosol treatment?

A: The duration of treatment varies significantly depending on the regulated use. Anthelmintic treatment typically involves a single oral dose, whereas historical adjuvant cancer protocols involved a cyclic regimen lasting up to one year.

Q: Do children or teenagers use Quadrosol for this condition?

A: Studies have been done primarily in adult patients. While pediatric dosing for anthelmintic use is calculated precisely by body weight, there is no specific information comparing its use in children with other age groups in the official documents.

Q: Are there any known severe side effects that I should be aware of?

A: Yes, serious adverse effects that have been documented include convulsions, severe nervous disorders, and the risk of leukoencephalopathy. Leukoencephalopathy is a potentially serious condition affecting the white matter of the brain that is subject to continuous safety monitoring.

Q: Can Quadrosol impact my ability to drive or operate machinery?

A: Regulatory warnings state that adverse effects such as drowsiness or dizziness have been reported. These central nervous system effects may impact the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Q: Does Quadrosol have any warnings related to mental health or mood changes?

A: The list of documented adverse effects includes nervous system symptoms related to mood. These include mental depression, anxiety, irritability, and paranoia.

Q: Can Quadrosol affect the results of lab tests, like blood work?

A: Yes, documented adverse effects can include bone marrow depression. This is a decrease in white and red blood cells, which indicates that the drug can affect certain lab values related to blood work.

Q: Is Quadrosol known to cause weight gain or loss?

A: Adverse event reporting includes anorexia (decreased appetite) as a documented side effect. Potential for rapid weight loss has also been noted in the safety data.

Q: How long does the primary effect of a single dose of Quadrosol typically last?

A: The elimination half-life is approximately 3 to 4 hours. Its anthelmintic action involves causing rapid paralysis of the target organism, allowing it to be expelled from the body.

Q: Are there any known issues with taking Quadrosol with herbal teas?

A: Specific data on herbal teas is not typically listed in general drug interaction summaries. Professional guidance is recommended when combining the drug with any other product, including herbal supplements and teas.

Q: Does the efficacy of Quadrosol vary between different patient groups?

A: Research protocols have included examining the drug's effects in individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as liver or kidney problems. This is done to document potential differences in metabolism and safety outcomes across patient groups.

Q: Does Quadrosol interact with alcohol?

A: Yes, the consumption of alcohol (ethanol) is strictly prohibited during therapy and for at least 24 hours following the final dose. This is due to a documented risk of a severe disulfiram-like reaction.

Q: Is there a risk of developing a new symptom after prolonged use of Quadrosol?

A: Safety data indicates a documented risk of developing leukoencephalopathy. This is a potentially serious neurological condition that can damage the white matter of the brain.

Q: Does Quadrosol have any effect on fertility?

A: Official documents note that this drug may temporarily or permanently affect the ability to have children. Sexual problems and reproduction concerns are listed among the documented side effects that may occur.

Q: Is there a generic version of Quadrosol available?

A: The active ingredient in this medicinal product is Levamisole. This active ingredient is available generically.

How should Quadrosol be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Quadrosol?

Regulatory labeling establishes mandatory requirements for the storage, stability, and disposal of Quadrosol (Levamisole). The medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Requirement Official Regulatory Statement
Temperature & Handling Do not store above 25 °C. Do not refrigerate or freeze the medicine.
Protection Keep the container in the original outer carton to protect the product from light and frost.
Stability After Opening The injectable solution has a limited shelf life of 28 days after first opening, provided storage conditions (below 25 °C, protected from light) are maintained.
Disposal Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste to help protect the environment. Consult a specialist for instructions on how to discard unused medicine.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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