Diacor

Quick links to important sections

Diacor

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Diacor

Property Description
Active Ingredient Mebendazole (Mebendazolum)
Form Oral Dosage Form (Tablet, Chewable Tablet)
Pharmacological Class Anthelmintic Agent
Common Use Elimination of Intestinal Parasitic Worms
Origin Synthetic Benzimidazole Derivative

What Type of Medicine is Diacor and What is it Made Of?

Diacor is a medicinal product defined by its sole active component, Mebendazole, and is classified as an Anthelmintic agent used for the elimination of parasitic worms. This substance, known officially as Mebendazolum, is a synthetic Benzimidazole derivative, distinguishing it from agents derived from natural sources. Mebendazole is included on the World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines due to its importance in public health. The inclusion in this list is clinically recognized for establishing the drug's role as a foundation for effective anti-parasitic treatment worldwide.

The active ingredient Mebendazole is pharmacologically supported as a selective agent for its high affinity toward the tubulin of parasitic organisms. This selectivity means the drug primarily targets the parasite's biology rather than the host's cells. The product is prepared as a single-active-ingredient product in a solid Oral Dosage Form, typically a tablet or chewable tablet, which is administered internally to target the parasites in the gastrointestinal tract.


What is the General Purpose of a Benzimidazole Anthelmintic?

The overarching purpose of Diacor, as a Benzimidazole Anthelmintic, is to provide a specific, targeted therapy for clearing the parasitic burden from the host's body. The medication addresses the typical neutral use scenario of resolving common intestinal helminthic infections. These agents are designed to resolve the underlying parasitic infection by interfering with the vital functions of the worm. This general benefit is achieved by preventing the parasitic organism from properly sustaining itself through nutrient uptake. This action halts the parasite's ability to proliferate and ultimately leads to its elimination, thus providing definitive clearance of the worm burden and addressing the fundamental challenge posed by such infections with a proven, chemically distinct agent.

What side effects are possible with Diacor?

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Diacor (Gliclazide) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most common and significant risk associated with this class of drug is hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level), which occurs when blood sugar drops too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include sweating, dizziness, headache, shaking, anxiety, and confusion. It is crucial for patients to recognize these signs and know how to treat low blood sugar immediately with a fast-acting source of glucose, such as sugary food or fruit juice.

Less common side effects typically include gastrointestinal disturbances such as:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea or flatulence
  • Indigestion or abdominal pain

Other general side effects may include dizziness, headache, and weight gain. If any side effect persists or causes concern, consult a healthcare provider.


Safety Information and Precautions

Contraindications

Diacor is not suitable for individuals with:

  • Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
  • Diabetic Ketoacidosis
  • Severe kidney or liver disease
  • Allergy to Gliclazide or other sulfonylurea drugs.

Interactions and Warnings

  • Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it significantly increases the risk of severe hypoglycemia when taking this medication.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before using Diacor if pregnant or breastfeeding, as the medication may not be safe for the baby.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: Use caution when driving or operating machinery, particularly at the start of treatment, until you know how the drug affects your blood sugar control and concentration.

Monitoring

Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential. Your doctor may also recommend periodic blood tests to check your liver function and blood cell counts to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Diacor Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory documents state that an acute overdose of Diacor (Mebendazole) may present with documented gastrointestinal manifestations. These include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.


Severe Outcomes and Exposure Factors

Severe, systemic manifestations have been reported in scenarios involving exposure to doses substantially higher than recommended or prolonged use. The physiological systems affected in these cases include the Hematologic system, with documentation of agranulocytosis and neutropenia, and the Hepatic system, with reports of hepatitis and reversible liver function disturbances. Additionally, glomerulonephritis affecting the renal system has been documented. Population-specific overdose notes include reports of convulsions in infants below the age of one year.


Emergency Actions and Management

In the event of a suspected overdosage, the official guidance mandates that individuals seek emergency medical attention and immediately contact a Poison Control center. The regulatory documents confirm that no specific antidote is known for Mebendazole. Management is therefore limited to symptomatic and supportive therapy. Procedural steps, such as the administration of activated charcoal or the performance of gastric lavage, may be considered. Continuous monitoring of blood counts and hepatic function is advisable when the drug is used at higher or prolonged levels.

Therapeutic Uses of Diacor

What Diacor Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Diacor is indicated for the management of high blood sugar (glucose) levels, a principal symptom associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It is typically employed when supportive measures—including consistent diet, regular physical activity, and weight management—do not sufficiently assist in achieving and maintaining target blood glucose levels. The product’s intended use is to support blood glucose management, serving as a therapy used alone (monotherapy) or in combination with other anti-diabetic treatments.

The essential therapeutic role for the patient is providing assistance in maintaining blood sugar within an appropriate, individualized range. This support is a necessary element of a comprehensive care plan that helps patients work toward their long-term health goals.

"Diacor is intended to assist patients in reaching and maintaining target blood sugar levels."


Quick Fact: Relief for Elevated Blood Sugar

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus guidance for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus treatment

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Diacor's (Mebendazole) eligibility profile is strictly defined by regulatory authorities to ensure safe use. The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or its excipients. Absolute prohibition is placed on infants below 1 year of age due to the reported risk of convulsions. The use of Diacor must be avoided concomitantly with the medicine metronidazole, as this combination has been associated with severe skin reactions.

Use is established for adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age, though some specific formulations allow use from one year of age. The drug is not recommended for children younger than two years, as safety has not been fully established in this group. Eligibility is further restricted for pregnant women, where use is either contraindicated or strongly advised against due to potential fetal risk. Caution is necessary for patients with impaired hepatic function because the body's ability to metabolize the drug may be reduced, potentially leading to higher drug levels. For patients receiving prolonged or high-dose therapy, close monitoring of blood counts is required.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Administration Restrictions

Co-administration of Diacor and Metronidazole should be avoided. This restriction is documented in regulatory prescribing information as concomitant use has been associated with severe, post-marketing reports of serious skin reactions, specifically Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). This is classified as an administration-timing restriction based on clinical risk.


Pharmacokinetic Exposure Modification

The systemic exposure and concentration of Diacor's active ingredient are subject to change with concomitant medicinal products, a process defined as a pharmacokinetic interaction. Co-administration with Cimetidine may result in a rise in Mebendazole plasma concentrations, which is a documented outcome attributed to the inhibition of Mebendazole's metabolism. Conversely, combining Diacor with enzyme-inducing anticonvulsant agents such as Phenytoin or Carbamazepine may lead to reduced plasma levels of Mebendazole. This decrease is linked to the induction of the drug's metabolic pathway.


Drug-Food and Population Cautions

The absorption of the medicine is influenced by food type. Dosing with a high-fat meal results in an increase in the overall bioavailability of the drug, a documented drug-food interaction. Furthermore, impaired hepatic function is noted as a population-specific caution, as it may lead to higher Mebendazole plasma concentrations due to reduced metabolic clearance.

Mechanism of Action

Selective Disruption of Parasite Cell Structure

Diacor (Mebendazole) primarily targets the beta-tubulin protein within the parasitic organism, binding selectively to the colchicine-binding site. This interaction acts as a polymerization inhibitor, preventing the assembly of microtubules, which are vital components of the worm's internal cell structure and cytoskeleton.

Metabolic Collapse and Energy Pathway Failure

The structural damage caused by tubulin disruption collapses the specialized cells responsible for nutrient absorption (tegument). This physiological failure immediately impairs glucose uptake and consumption by the worm. The resulting energy crisis causes the rapid depletion of glycogen reserves and cessation of ATP synthesis, leading to the organism’s functional failure and ultimate demise.

Mechanistic Constraints and Localized Action

The drug's mechanism is physiologically limited to action within the gastrointestinal lumen due to its minimal absorption into the host's systemic circulation. This restriction correlates with a highly localized effect profile on the parasitic structures within the intestinal lumen rather than systemic modulation.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Principles of Administration

Diacor is officially administered exclusively through the oral route as a chewable tablet, available primarily in 100 mg and 500 mg strengths. The administration pattern is defined by the specific indication being addressed. For pinworm infection (enterobiasis), the standard regimen is a single oral dose of 100 mg. For infections caused by parasites such as roundworm or whipworm, the standard dosing protocol involves taking 100 mg twice daily for three consecutive days.


Intake Conditions and Preparation

The timing of administration is flexible; Diacor may be taken with or without food. Due to its formulation, the tablet requires specific preparation for ingestion: it must be thoroughly chewed before swallowing. Alternatively, the drug may be crushed and mixed with food. For the higher 500 mg strength, the tablet may be placed in a small volume of water to soften it into a semi-solid mass before taking. A standard procedural condition is the absence of fasting or purging requirements.


Course Duration and Population Rules

Diacor is structured as a short-term course (1-day or 3-day duration). The course must be completed as prescribed, and if a parasitological cure is not achieved, a full repeat course of treatment may be administered after a three-week interval. Critically, the dosing schedule for adults is also applied to pediatric patients two years of age and older, with identical milligram quantities and frequency.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Joint Functionality and Pain Management

Clinical research has investigated the effect of the compound on symptoms associated with osteoarthritis (OA), primarily focusing on pain and joint function. Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have compared the compound against placebo in participants with knee or hip OA.

One trial reported a reduction in patient-reported pain scores after 12 weeks of assessment. This change in pain was measured using standardized tools, such as the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).

Mechanistic Investigations

Preclinical research has explored the compound's potential association with inflammatory pathways, specifically involving Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) and cartilage-degrading enzymes, in laboratory models. These investigations examine possible biological associations but do not confirm a specific clinical mechanism of action in humans.

Comparative and Long-Term Studies

Studies have also assessed the compound in comparison with other common pain management therapies. One analysis measured changes in reported symptoms between the compound and traditional agents over six months. Long-term studies, some extending up to one year, were conducted to assess the compound's profile over a prolonged period.

Safety Profile

During clinical evaluation, the most commonly observed side effect was mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset, specifically loose stools or diarrhea. This was typically reported during the first two weeks of use and often decreased with continuous treatment. The study reported that mild gastrointestinal upset was among the side effects observed, and administration occurred with food in the studies.

Key Studies & References

  1. Symptomatic efficacy and safety of diacerein in the treatment of osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Diacor (FAQ)


Q: Does Diacor interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

A: Official product information indicates a potential interaction between Diacor (Gliclazide) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. These combinations may enhance the blood-sugar-lowering effect of the medicine.

Regulatory information indicates that a clinically significant interaction between Mebendazole and acetaminophen (Paracetamol) is not anticipated based on current data.


Q: What should I do if I miss a scheduled time for taking Diacor?

A: If a dose is missed, regulatory sources advise against taking a double dose to compensate for the forgotten one. Instead, official information describes continuing the treatment schedule by taking the next dose at the usual time.


Q: What precautions should be taken by older patients using Diacor?

A: Official documents note that older patients are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and they may find the symptoms more difficult to recognize. For this reason, careful and consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels is noted in official documentation as essential.


Q: What are the known interactions between Diacor and herbal supplements?

A: The use of certain herbal supplements, such as St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), is noted in regulatory text as potentially affecting blood glucose control (Gliclazide). This interference may impact the drug's effectiveness, and official sources note that this combination requires special care.


Q: How quickly does Diacor leave the body?

A: The time it takes for a medicine to leave the body is related to its plasma half-life. For the active ingredient Mebendazole, the reported half-life in individuals with normal liver function is between 2.5 and 5.5 hours.


Q: What happens if Diacor is stopped suddenly?

A: For conditions requiring long-term treatment, such as Type 2 diabetes managed by Diacor (Gliclazide), stopping the medication suddenly may cause the underlying medical condition to worsen.


Q: Is Diacor typically used for acute problems or chronic conditions?

A: Official documentation indicates that the drug is prescribed for conditions ranging from short-term parasitic infections (Mebendazole) to the long-term management of chronic conditions, specifically Type 2 diabetes (Gliclazide). This duality of use depends entirely on the active ingredient and the specific formulation being used.


Q: Are there any specific lifestyle changes that affect how well Diacor works?

A: Official information notes that the effectiveness of Diacor (Gliclazide) relies on key lifestyle factors. Following dietary guidance, engaging in regular exercise, and maintaining consistent carbohydrate intake are factors associated with optimal blood glucose control.


Q: What were the primary outcomes of the clinical trials for Diacor?

A: Clinical trials for this medication measure different outcomes depending on the intended use. For diabetes management, results are measured by the control of metabolic markers like blood glucose and HbA1c levels. For anti-parasitic use, the primary outcome is the definitive clearance of the parasitic organism.


Q: What are the long-term side effects that studies have looked at for Diacor?

A: Studies investigating extended or long-term use have been associated with the need to monitor for certain effects. These include potential changes in blood cell counts (such as neutropenia) and transient elevations in liver enzyme levels.


Q: Is Diacor considered a controlled substance?

A: Regulatory listings confirm that the active ingredients in Diacor are not classified as controlled substances under the US DEA schedules for drugs with potential for abuse or dependence.


Q: How long does it typically take for Diacor to start having an effect?

A: The time needed to achieve a clear, noticeable effect can vary based on the treated condition. For managing blood glucose (Gliclazide), official information suggests checking levels after the first two weeks of treatment to evaluate the initial response.


Q: How long do the initial side effects of Diacor usually last?

A: According to official information, initial adverse effects, such as visual changes reported with blood sugar fluctuations (Gliclazide) or common gastrointestinal upset (Mebendazole), may be temporary. These effects often lessen or resolve as the body becomes used to the medicine.


Q: Are the listed side effects of Diacor generally considered temporary?

A: Official product information notes that some adverse effects, such as decreases in blood cell counts (Gliclazide) or temporary changes in vision, are typically considered reversible. They often resolve upon the discontinuation of the drug.


Q: What does the research say about Diacor's effectiveness over several years?

A: Studies show that the long-term effectiveness of drugs in the sulfonylurea class (Gliclazide) may decrease over time due to the natural progression of Type 2 diabetes. For Mebendazole, prolonged use is associated with monitoring precautions rather than a documented loss of efficacy.


Q: When was Diacor first made available?

A: Official drug records show that the 100 mg strength of Mebendazole, one of the active ingredients associated with Diacor, was first introduced to the US market in January 1975.

How should Diacor be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal of Diacor (Mebendazole)

The medicine must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C. It must be protected from freezing, excess heat (above 30°C), moisture, and direct light to maintain stability. Keep the medication in its original, tightly closed container and out of the reach and sight of children.

Disposal must adhere to regulatory guidelines. Do not flush the medicine down the toilet. Unused or expired Diacor should be returned to a drug take-back location or disposed of by mixing it with an unpalatable substance (like dirt or coffee grounds) in a sealed bag before placing it in household trash.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Diacor found in:

A-Z Index: