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Decaris 150 mg

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Decaris 150 mg

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Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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.

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Overview of Decaris 150 mg

Property Description
Active ingredient Levamisole hydrochloride
Form Oral tablet
Pharmacological class Anthelminthic and Immunomodulator
Common use (General) Anti-parasitic agent and immune support
Origin Synthetic compound (Imidazothiazole derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Decaris 150 mg?

Decaris 150 mg is a single-ingredient oral tablet containing the active substance Levamisole. It is classified primarily as an anthelminthic (anti-parasitic drug) and secondarily as an immunomodulator. This compound is a synthetic derivative of the Imidazothiazole chemical class.

The dual classification of Levamisole is crucial, as it is clinically recognized for its action against helminthiasis (parasitic worm infections). This designation confirms the medicine’s established value in treating patients with gastrointestinal worm infestations. Due to its oral tablet form, Decaris 150 mg is specifically positioned for adult patient groups requiring this standard strength of the compound.


Composition and Physical Form of the 150 mg Tablet

The Decaris 150 mg tablet is characterized by the presence of Levamisole hydrochloride as the active ingredient, formulated for the oral route of administration. The 150 mg value defines the precise strength of the drug within the solid oral preparation.

The synthetic origin of the Levamisole compound ensures chemical consistency. Levamisole demonstrates a high affinity for its target biological systems, supporting its anti-parasitic action. Furthermore, the 150 mg single tablet strength is often associated with simplified anti-parasitic protocols, distinguishing it from lower-strength formulations.


General Therapeutic Function of Levamisole

The general therapeutic purpose of Levamisole in Decaris is two-fold: the expulsion of parasitic worms and support for a weakened immune response. Its anthelminthic role is effective due to its mechanism causing rapid neuromuscular paralysis in the parasites.

The secondary immunomodulatory property is an important feature specific to Levamisole, distinguishing it from many other nematicides. This function allows the substance to help normalize or enhance the activity of key immune cells, particularly T-lymphocytes, underscoring its dual functional capacity.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines - Levamisole
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What side effects are possible with Decaris 150 mg?

Decaris 150 mg (Levamisole): Official Side Effects and Safety Information

This section outlines the documented adverse reactions and safety restrictions for Decaris 150 mg (Levamisole), based strictly on official governmental regulatory documents.

Serious Adverse Reactions

Regulatory authorities document several serious risks, primarily related to the blood and central nervous system:

  • Agranulocytosis: A severe and potentially life-threatening drop in the count of white blood cells (neutrophils). This risk is a significant safety concern, especially with extended or repeated exposure to Levamisole.
  • Encephalopathy/Leukoencephalopathy: Rare, serious conditions involving brain dysfunction or demyelination, which have been documented in regulatory reports.
  • Convulsions and severe Hypersensitivity Reactions are also documented as serious risks.

Common Adverse Reactions

The most frequently reported side effects, typically mild and transient, primarily involve the digestive and nervous systems:

System-Organ Class Common/Expected Reactions
Gastrointestinal Disorders Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea
Nervous System Disorders Headache, dizziness

Safety-Related Restrictions and Considerations

Official safety profiles include specific limitations and cautions:

  • Contraindications: The medicine is restricted for use in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Levamisole or excipients, active viral diseases (such as herpes or varicella), and uncontrolled psychoses.
  • Alcohol Interaction: Regulatory documents note that consuming alcohol with Levamisole may cause a severe disulfiram-like reaction, leading to flushing, rapid heartbeat, and vomiting.
  • Population Cautions: Use is generally discouraged during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant.
  • Alertness: The drug may decrease alertness or cause sleepiness, requiring caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
  • Monitoring: Close monitoring of blood counts and liver function is required before and during treatment due to the risk of agranulocytosis and hepatotoxicity.
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Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory information dictates that any suspected Decaris 150 mg (Levamisole) overdose requires the individual to seek emergency medical treatment or contact a doctor immediately. This immediate action is necessary because Levamisole toxicity is formally documented to present with severe clinical signs that can mimic organophosphorus compound poisoning or nicotine-like effects.

Documented manifestations of an overdose primarily affect the neurological and gastrointestinal systems. These include generalized symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and headache. More severe neurological involvement can present as muscle tremors, irritability, ataxia, prostration, and severe episodes of convulsions or seizures. Severe toxicity is also associated with cardiorespiratory signs, including respiratory distress and potential collapse.

Of critical concern is the risk of potentially fatal hematological disorders, such as agranulocytosis, leucopenia, and thrombocytopenia, which are listed as severe outcomes in regulatory documents. Treatment for overdose is challenging because no specific antidote is known for Levamisole toxicity. Consequently, management is formally designated as symptomatic and supportive. In cases of recent ingestion, regulatory guidance notes that procedural steps such as emesis or gastric lavage may be of value if performed within a few hours.

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Therapeutic Uses of Decaris 150 mg

What Decaris 150 mg Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Decaris 150 mg is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes that involve symptoms related to physical discomfort stemming from specific parasitic infections. The medicine is indicated for the treatment of certain helminth infections, specifically for conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations related to parasitic infections. It supports the management of symptoms that interfere with daily comfort during the acute phase, providing supportive relief when symptoms associated with acute or episodic changes intensify.

It is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, and is relevant when symptoms become more disruptive during flare-ups. The general benefit is that it contributes to easing the overall symptom load, and assists with maintaining functional stability during symptomatic periods when conditions produce significant symptomatic burden. It is commonly used in situations requiring temporary assistance in symptom stabilization.

Decaris 150 mg is also considered relevant in certain specialized therapeutic areas where additional symptomatic support is needed in contexts involving heightened systemic burden. “It is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate.” In these settings, it may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.


Quick Fact: Relief for Symptom Clusters

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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Decaris 150 mg (levamisole) is typically used for the treatment of parasitic worm infections, such as those caused by roundworms and hookworms. It is a formulation intended primarily for adults. Determining eligibility for this medication requires a careful assessment by a healthcare professional.


General Eligibility and Contraindications

Patient Group Status Key Considerations
Adults with Worm Infections Generally Eligible Used for specific parasitic infections, usually as a single dose or short course.
Allergy to Levamisole Contraindicated Should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any excipients.
Pre-existing Blood Disorders Avoid/Use with Caution Levamisole can affect blood cell counts; requires careful monitoring or avoidance.
Severe Liver or Kidney Disease Use with Caution May require dosage adjustment and close monitoring of liver and kidney function.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals Use with Caution/Avoid Use during pregnancy is generally avoided due to limited safety data; consulting a doctor is essential.

Decaris 150 mg is also not recommended for use in children; a lower-strength formulation is typically prescribed when levamisole is indicated for pediatric patients. Patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis or other immune system disorders may also be advised against using this medication, as levamisole has been associated with immunologic side effects.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory documents define the interaction profile of Decaris 150 mg (Levamisole) by listing specific co-administration restrictions and outcomes with other substances and drug classes.

Documented Interaction Patterns

Interaction Entity Interaction Type/Official Description Regulatory Constraint
Organophosphorus Compounds Formal contraindicated combination. Mandatory 14-day separation window; must not be administered 14 days before or after Levamisole treatment.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) Documented to potentiate the hypoprothrombinemic effect (Warfarin activity). Requires close monitoring of blood clotting parameters due to altered coagulation effects.
Chemotherapeutic Agents (e.g., Fluorouracil) Increased risk of certain side effects with combination use (e.g., Capecitabine, Doxifluridine, Tegafur). Combination is documented but requires strict observation due to combined activity.
Alcohol (Ethanol) Interaction classified as Moderate. May increase common adverse effects of Levamisole (e.g., nausea, vomiting).
Other Anthelmintics (e.g., Albendazole) May result in increased bioavailability of certain other anti-parasitic agents. Requires consideration of altered drug exposure when co-administering.

Connection to the overall interaction profile: The regulatory structure for Levamisole includes explicit prohibition of combination with Organophosphorus compounds, supported by a mandatory 14-day timing rule. Additionally, the profile formally documents that co-administration with oral anticoagulants may alter coagulation parameters, and notes the specific potential for increased bioavailability with other anthelmintic drugs. These statements collectively describe the non-advisory constraints for co-administration.

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Mechanism of Action

Parasite Neuromuscular Blockade

This mechanism involves Levamisole acting as an agonist at specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on the somatic muscle cells of susceptible nematodes. This binding causes prolonged receptor activation, leading to sustained muscle membrane depolarization and continuous, rigid contraction. The resulting spastic paralysis prevents the worm from maintaining its hold within the host, which is the key physiological consequence of the anthelminthic mechanism.


Modulation of Cell-Mediated Immune Function

The second domain involves the drug modulating the activity of the host's T-lymphocytes and macrophages, particularly when these cells exhibit reduced baseline activity. This action influences and enhances the proliferation and maturation of these key cells, thereby modulating the cell-mediated immune response (Th1) and adjusting the function of the host's cellular defense mechanisms.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Decaris 150 mg (Official Administration Guidelines)

Decaris 150 mg (levamisole) is administered as a single oral dose, which is a key characteristic of its use protocol in treating parasitic infections. This dosage form is typically intended for adult patients.


Administration Details

Guideline Official Instruction
Route of Administration Oral use
Official Dosing One tablet of 150 mg
Frequency and Timing Administered as a single, one-time dose.
Special Administration Should be taken after a meal with a little water.
Preparation Steps The tablet must be swallowed whole; do not chew, crush, or break.
Age-Group Rule This strength is reserved for use in adults or as prescribed for adolescents (12–18 years) based on body weight.

Procedural Steps

The required steps for using Decaris 150 mg are structured for simple, single-instance compliance:

  • Confirmation: Ensure the correct formulation, Decaris 150 mg tablet, is ready.
  • Timing: Take the tablet after a completed meal.
  • Swallow: Swallow the whole tablet with a small amount of water.
  • Completion: The administration is complete, as no further doses are required for the standard course.

Missed Dose

Because the official administration of Decaris 150 mg for this indication is a single dose, the concept of a missed dose does not apply to the course of treatment. If vomiting occurs shortly after administration, a healthcare provider must be consulted for guidance on whether to readminister the dose.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Decaris (levamisole) is primarily recognized for its application as an anthelminthic agent, specifically for parasitic nematode infections like ascariasis. Clinical studies have historically focused on its efficacy in this core indication.

Core Anthelminthic Evidence

A multi-center analysis comparing levamisole (50 mg to 150 mg doses) against other treatments for ascariasis reported high cure rates (over 90%) and egg reduction rates (over 95%). These findings suggested a reliable response, particularly with a two-dose regimen, in reducing infection rates within affected populations. The observed response was not found to be significantly influenced by a patient’s age or the severity of the initial infection.


Research in Immunomodulation and Other Conditions

Beyond its initial use, levamisole has been extensively investigated for its immunomodulatory properties, particularly in contexts involving impaired T-cell function. These studies frequently utilize a dose of 150 mg, administered over specific periods as an adjuvant treatment.

  • Nephrotic Syndrome: Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in children with frequently relapsing steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) have shown that adding levamisole may prolong the time to relapse compared to placebo. It has been explored as a steroid-sparing option, though the evidence base for its role in clinical guidelines varies.
  • Chronic Diseases: Research has explored its use as an adjuvant in conditions such as oral lichen planus and certain cancers (e.g., in combination with 5-fluorouracil for colon cancer), where the goal is to modulate the immune response. However, these are typically considered investigational or require further, larger-scale RCTs to confirm consistent benefits. Conflicting reports exist regarding its usefulness in certain chronic inflammatory diseases, highlighting the need for more conclusive, high-quality data.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Decaris 150 mg (FAQ)

Q: Does this medicine make you sleepy?

Official information for some anti-nausea medicines indicates that drowsiness or sedation is a common side effect. Sedation is sleepiness that can make it difficult to focus or concentrate. Because of this potential effect, these medicines may temporarily impair a person's mental and physical abilities.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Regulatory information suggests caution regarding the consumption of alcohol when taking certain anti-nausea medicines, particularly those that are known to cause drowsiness. Combining alcohol with these medicines can increase the sedative effects, potentially leading to excessive sleepiness.

Q: Is this drug safe for children 2 years old?

Based on regulatory guidance, certain anti-nausea drugs, such as Promethazine, are strictly contraindicated and are not recommended for use in children under two years of age due to serious safety risks. Other agents, like Domperidone, are not licensed for use in children younger than 12 years or those weighing less than 35 kg. The suitability for use in any child is determined by official labeling.

Q: Is it safe to take this drug long-term?

The length of time a medicine can be safely taken is defined in its regulatory documentation. For example, official sources advise that Domperidone treatment should typically not exceed one week. For Metoclopramide, the FDA has advised against use for longer than 12 weeks due to the risk of developing an irreversible movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia.

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How should Decaris 150 mg be stored and disposed of?

Storage Requirements

Decaris 150 mg must be stored at or below 30 C in a closed container. The medication requires protection from heat, moisture, and direct light, and it is mandatory to keep the product from freezing. A vital safety constraint is that Decaris 150 mg must always be stored out of the sight and reach of children and pets. This ensures both product stability and safety against accidental ingestion.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired tablets should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into the drain. The preferred method for disposal is utilizing a formal drug take-back program or medicine collection facility, if available. If no program exists, the medicine should be mixed with an undesirable substance, placed in a sealed bag or container, and discarded with household trash. Any personal information on the prescription label must be removed before disposing of the empty packaging.

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

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