Levicon

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Levicon

Method of action: Anthelmintic

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.

Overview of Levicon

Property Description
Active ingredient Levamisole hydrochloride
Form Tablets, Oral Solution, Injectable Solution
Pharmacological class Anthelmintic Agent; Immunomodulator
Origin Synthetic (Imidazothiazole derivative)

Is Levicon an Anthelmintic Agent or an Immunomodulator?

Levicon is a prescription-only, synthetic pharmaceutical preparation that is formally classified as both an anthelmintic agent and an immunomodulator. Its active ingredient is Levamisole hydrochloride, which is the highly active L-isomer of the racemic compound, tetramisole. This compound is structurally unique and is clinically recognized for its anti-parasitic effectiveness.

This dual classification is a key differentiating factor, as Levamisole's physiological action allows it to function as a nicotinic receptor agonist in susceptible parasites, causing immediate paralysis. The drug’s secondary, immune-supporting role involves an ability to modify depressed host immune functions.

Levamisole: Composition, Origin, and Forms

Levamisole is a synthetic drug derived from the imidazothiazole chemical class, manufactured as a single active ingredient product. It is available in multiple dosage forms, predominantly as tablets for oral administration and various forms of oral solution. The availability of these forms facilitates administration via the oral route, which is the typical use scenario for systemic parasitic infestations.

What is the General Purpose of Levicon?

The general purpose of Levicon is to achieve the rapid clearance of specific parasitic infestations by causing the paralysis of the target organisms via its action as a cholinergic agonist. Concurrently, the drug’s ability to modulate immune functions provides a therapeutic benefit by supporting the body's natural defenses and contributing to the host's recovery after infection.

Regulatory References

  1. Levamisole Hydrochloride - NCI Drug Dictionary
  2. Levamisole - WHO Food Additives Series 27
  3. Levamisole - Essential Medicines List

What side effects are possible with Levicon?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile for Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) is officially documented and categorized by regulatory bodies based on the frequency and system affected. The risk profile varies significantly depending on the duration of use, a distinction that is formally noted in regulatory prescribing information.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Adverse reactions are classified into categories of frequency and by the system-organ classes involved. Gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological effects, and hematological abnormalities are the main physiological systems associated with documented adverse reactions.

Classification Tier Examples of Adverse Reactions (Official Terminology)
More Common Diarrhea, Metallic taste, Nausea, Vomiting, Headache, Dizziness
Less Common Fever/Chills, Anxiety/Nervousness, Pain in joints/muscles, Skin rash/Itching, Trouble in sleeping

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Patterns

The official safety profile highlights the risk of specific, serious adverse reactions. Documented rare but severe events include Agranulocytosis (a sharp reduction in a type of white blood cell), Leukoencephalopathy (a severe demyelinating disease of the central nervous system), Vasculitis, and Pancreatitis.

These severe reactions are predominantly associated with extended, multiple-dose treatment regimens (immunomodulatory use). In contrast, short-course or single-dose use (anthelmintic use) is officially associated with generally milder and more limited gastrointestinal or neurological effects.

Regulatory documentation also includes specific safety constraints: the medicine may officially decrease the body's ability to fight infection, and co-ingestion with alcohol can produce a disulfiram-like reaction. Furthermore, the drug is formally classified as a reproductive hazard and is suspected of damaging the unborn child.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Manifestations and Required Actions

The official documentation for Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) overdose identifies toxicity primarily through severe neurotoxic and gastrointestinal signs. Symptoms documented in regulatory sources include central nervous system disturbances such as clonic convulsions (seizures), dizziness, muscle tremors, ataxia (uncontrolled movements), and confusion.

Additional documented presentations involve the gastrointestinal system, including nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, and diarrhea. Severe toxicity may also progress to collapse and prostration.

Documented Overdose Severity
Severity is classified by the potential for life-threatening outcomes such as convulsions and collapse.

Official Emergency Response

Regulatory guidance explicitly states that immediate medical attention is required upon the suspicion of an overdose or the manifestation of any acute symptoms. Official instructions mandate that individuals should Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor or seek emergency medical advice.

In the event of ingestion, the regulatory protocol includes rinsing the mouth thoroughly and explicitly instructs to DO NOT induce vomiting. Official documents state that no specific antidote is known for Levamisole toxicity, and therefore, management must be symptomatic and supportive, necessitating clinical observation and appropriate care.

Therapeutic Uses of Levicon

Levicon is an established medication used to help manage symptoms associated with certain types of seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Its primary function is to support the stabilization of nerve cell activity in the brain. This stabilization may contribute to a reduction in the occurrence of seizures.

Levicon is typically utilized in therapeutic plans designed to address several categories of seizures, which can include focal-onset seizures, myoclonic seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The overall benefit to the patient involves assistance with seizure symptom management, which may include associated effects such as confusion or loss of awareness.


Quick Fact: Relief for Seizure Activity

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus drug guidance

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Levicon?

This information outlines the population eligibility and restrictions for Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) strictly based on official regulatory documentation.

Category Eligibility Statement
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults and school-age children are eligible for anthelmintic use in regions where the product maintains human market authorization.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Levamisole and patients with pre-existing blood disorders must not use this medicine.
Age-related eligibility rules Adults are eligible. Pediatric use is established for school-age children, typically adjusted by weight. Use in pre-school age children is noted as less well-established in some reviews.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Use requires caution and monitoring in patients with hepatic (liver) impairment, renal (kidney) impairment, and certain neurological conditions like epilepsy.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status Use is officially not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Eligibility-related restrictions The product has been withdrawn from the human drug market in certain countries, thereby prohibiting its therapeutic use in those jurisdictions.

Official regulatory documents define eligibility by establishing clear and absolute contraindications related to hematological status. Eligibility is regionally restricted due to varying market authorization, and use is formally limited for pregnant and breastfeeding populations.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile of Levicon is defined by several mandatory restrictions and documented risks established by regulatory authorities. The most critical restriction is the contraindicated combination with Organophosphorus Compounds. Co-administration of these substances is strictly prohibited, and official regulatory documents mandate a timing separation of at least 14 days between the use of Levicon and organophosphorus agents.

Levicon is also classified as having Exposure-Modifying Interactions with certain commonly used medicines. Co-administration has been shown to increase the systemic effects of agents like Warfarin and Phenytoin, an outcome that requires careful consideration. The official profile notes that combination with Warfarin can lead to a clinically significant increase in the International Normalized Ratio (INR).

Furthermore, a risk of enhanced toxic effects exists with other Nicotine-like Compounds (such as Pyrantel or Morantel) due to a pharmacodynamic interaction where effects on shared receptors are additive. Finally, an important Drug–Substance Restriction is documented: the co-administration of Alcohol (Ethanol) is associated with the risk of an officially recognized "ANTABUSE"-like adverse reaction.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) is defined by two distinct and independent pharmacodynamic actions: a paralytic effect on parasitic organisms and a modulating effect on the host's immune system.

In its anthelmintic role, the molecule acts as an agonist at specific nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) found in the somatic muscle cells of susceptible nematodes. This binding causes persistent receptor activation, which initiates sustained membrane depolarization and muscular contraction. The resulting spastic paralysis causes the organism to lose its functional motility and ability to maintain position within the host's body.

The secondary mechanism involves acting as an immunomodulator, selectively influencing depressed immune function in the host. The molecule enhances the functional activity and proliferation of key host defense cells, including T-lymphocytes and phagocytes. This action modifies the regulatory dynamics of the host's natural cell-mediated and innate immune responses, contributing to physiological immune system regulation.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Levicon Is Used: Administration Guidelines

Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) is administered through the oral route, available in dosage forms such as tablets (50 mg and 150 mg strengths) and oral solution. The usage patterns of Levicon are defined by two distinct established regimens: a single-dose course for its anthelmintic purpose and a structured, intermittent cyclic schedule for its historical immunomodulatory use.

Standard Dosing and Frequency

Usage Type Standard Adult Dose Frequency and Schedule
Anthelmintic Use Typically 120 mg to 150 mg as a single dose. Single Administration; a second dose may be suggested after 3 or 7 days if infection persists.
Immunomodulator Use 50 mg dose. Administered orally three times a day (TID) for 3 consecutive days, repeated every two weeks.

Administration Conditions and Special Populations

Levicon may be taken with or without food, as its administration is independent of meal timing. For pediatric anthelmintic use, the dose is determined based on body weight, typically calculated as 3 mg per kg of body weight in a single administration.

In scheduled regimens, guidelines state that if a dose is missed, it should be skipped, and subsequent doses should continue on the established schedule; dose doubling is not authorized. For patients with specified renal impairment (GFR > 10 mL/min), the dosing regimen generally remains unchanged from normal renal function.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence: Overview of Studies for Levicon


Evidence for Anthelmintic Use (Parasitic Infestations)

Levicon was studied for its use in specific parasitic infestations, which are conditions characterized by systemic or functional imbalance. Research primarily involves short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and efficacy studies. These studies research examined the degree of parasite clearance that was measured in observed groups and the measured parasite load in affected individuals. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies where measurements of parasite clearance were monitored shortly following the therapeutic course.

What data are still emerging and not yet fully established involves long-term measurement of recurrence or re-infection across diverse settings. There is limited information for long-term outcomes when comparing the drug against newer treatments or fully mapping emerging drug resistance profiles.

Evidence for Immunomodulatory Use (Support for Depressed Host Immune Functions)

The drug was evaluated in a separate set of studies focused on its effect on the host immune system, including RCTs focusing on immune function markers and cohort studies. Studies explored how shifts in key immune cell populations, such as T-lymphocytes, were observed in the studied groups. Findings were mixed and varied across studies depending on the specific underlying condition and the patient’s initial immune status.

A clear link between measured immune marker shifts and durable clinical benefit is not yet established across all patient groups. The evidence quality varies across studies due to heterogeneity in study populations and designs. Limited information for long-term outcomes is available, tracing the prolonged recovery of immune function after the study period.

Evidence for Anticonvulsant Use (Seizure Management)

Levicon was studied for the management of symptoms associated with certain seizures, including standardized, short-term RCTs and long-term open-label extension studies. Researchers monitored changes in the frequency of specific seizure types and the measurement of seizure-free intervals in the groups studied. These findings describe patterns observed in the studies and are primarily short-term assessments of outcomes related to episodic or acute changes.

Long-term effects are not fully established regarding the sustained control of specific seizure types, particularly beyond the typical short follow-up durations. Subgroup findings are uncertain for specific, narrowly defined patient groups who have difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Furthermore, the relationship between the drug’s observed action and its effect on nerve cell stabilization requires further clarification across different causes of seizures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Levicon (FAQ)


Q: Is Levicon a long-term treatment or short-term?

Levicon is described in official documentation as having regimens for both short-term and extended use. For some conditions, it is given as a single-dose course. For others, official protocols specify an intermittent, cyclic schedule of administration that may be described in certain protocols as administered over periods of up to one year for specific indications.


Q: Is it common to feel tired after starting Levicon?

According to the official product information, unusual tiredness or sleepiness is reported as a less common adverse reaction. This effect is listed alongside other less frequent documented effects such as headache or trouble sleeping.


Q: Can Levicon be taken with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

The official interaction profile identifies specific high-risk prescription medicines and compounds that should be avoided with Levicon. However, regulatory documents do not generally specify restrictions for every common over-the-counter pain reliever. Patient safety guidelines generally recommend that a healthcare professional review all medications and supplements being used.


Q: Are there any specific foods or supplements to avoid while on Levicon?

Official drug documents clearly identify alcohol (ethanol) as a substance to be strictly avoided while using Levicon. Co-administration is officially associated with the risk of an officially recognized disulfiram-like adverse reaction. Beyond this critical restriction, the label does not typically name specific foods.


Q: Does Levicon interact with blood pressure medications?

The regulatory interaction profile focuses on high-risk drug classes, such as certain anticoagulants (like Warfarin) and anticonvulsants. Official documents do not typically specify general blood pressure medications as a restricted co-administration. Consulting the full prescribing information is necessary to determine all potential co-administration considerations.


Q: Is it normal to feel no difference in the first few days of taking Levicon?

The timeframe for feeling a difference depends on the condition being addressed. For its anti-parasitic use, evidence indicates the initial effect may be observed quickly, potentially within 24 hours. However, the effects related to immune or nerve stabilization are typically assessed over longer study periods, meaning the full effect may require longer study periods for assessment.


Q: Does Levicon carry any black box warnings from the FDA?

Official safety documents highly emphasize the risk of certain severe adverse reactions, such as Agranulocytosis and Leukoencephalopathy. These risks represent severe safety concerns that have been formally highlighted in regulatory communications and product labeling.


Q: What is the maximum time a person is usually prescribed Levicon?

The duration of use is defined by the specific official regimen being followed. For certain approved uses requiring extended therapy, official regulatory protocols describe cyclic treatment administered over a period of up to one year.


Q: Why is monitoring sometimes required when using Levicon?

Monitoring is required to check for proper function and to detect the appearance of certain severe adverse reactions. Official regulatory protocols specifically require ongoing monitoring of blood counts and other functional markers. Monitoring is performed to detect the appearance of severe adverse reactions, such as a sharp reduction in white blood cells.


Q: What kind of tests are done before a person starts taking Levicon?

Official guidance recommends that laboratory tests be conducted before or during treatment. These recommended tests typically include checking blood cell counts and liver function tests. This practice supports the evaluation of a patient’s baseline condition as defined by safety criteria.


Q: Is Levicon the same kind of medicine as [similar drug name]?

According to official classification, Levicon is defined as both an anthelmintic agent and an immunomodulator. This means it has two distinct, recognized roles: one for anti-parasitic action, and another for its modifying effect on immune functions, as described in authoritative documentation.


Q: What makes Levicon different from other treatments for [condition]?

Levicon's profile is defined by its dual mechanism of action. This includes a rapid, paralyzing effect on susceptible parasites and a distinct secondary ability to modulate depressed immune functions in the host, as described in regulatory documentation.


Q: How quickly should I expect Levicon to start working?

Official regulatory information on the anti-parasitic use states that the paralyzing effect on target organisms occurs relatively quickly. Evidence indicates this action often leads to expulsion of the organism within 24 hours of administration.


Q: Does Levicon have a cumulative effect over time?

Pharmacokinetic data indicates the drug has a relatively short plasma elimination half-life of approximately four hours. However, for some uses, it is administered in scheduled, intermittent cycles over a period of time, which means its therapeutic action is managed by the specific regimen.


Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Levicon last?

The drug is rapidly eliminated from the plasma with a half-life of approximately four hours. However, the full therapeutic action, such as the anti-parasitic effect, may be assessed over the following 24 hours, depending on the specific use.


Q: Is it safe to take Levicon with herbal products like St. John's Wort?

The official drug interaction profile is defined by specific, high-risk co-administrations, particularly with other medicines. Regulatory labeling does not generally specify interactions with all herbal products or supplements. Review of all active substances with a health professional is considered a standard step for drug safety.


Q: Are there any ongoing clinical trials for Levicon?

Specific trial statuses are not typically included in the official drug label. However, regulatory history indicates that new Good Clinical Practice (GCP) compliant studies have been planned or initiated for research into potential indications of the medicine.


Q: Where can I find the official summary of product characteristics (SmPC) for Levicon?

Official regulatory information, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or the FDA drug label, is made available to the public. This information can be found in the accessible databases of the relevant government health authority in your region.


Q: Why is the drug information leaflet for Levicon so long?

Drug information leaflets are legally required documents mandated by regulatory agencies like the FDA or EMA. They must include all formally documented information regarding use, contraindications, adverse reactions, and interactions, which contributes to their length.


Q: Does Levicon affect driving or operating machinery?

Official warnings advise that the medicine may cause effects such as dizziness and trouble in sleeping. Official labels caution that these symptoms may impair the ability to perform activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.


Q: What is the difference between brand-name Levicon and its generic version?

Regulatory bodies establish that generic versions contain the same active substance as the brand-name medicine. However, they may differ in characteristics such as their inactive ingredients, shape, or appearance, while regulatory standards for quality and safety remain the same.


Q: What should I do if I think I'm having a rare side effect from Levicon?

Regulatory agencies emphasize the importance of reporting all suspected adverse reactions to ensure ongoing safety monitoring. Reporting suspected adverse reactions to the relevant health authority is encouraged, and contact information is typically supplied in official materials.


Q: Is Levicon habit-forming or addictive?

Official documentation notes that a metabolite of Levicon is classified as a controlled substance in some jurisdictions. This is related to the reporting of stimulant-like effects on the central nervous system.


Q: What is the meaning of the [specific jargon term] mentioned in the side effects list?

Terms like Agranulocytosis and Leukoencephalopathy refer to severe adverse conditions described in official health sources. Agranulocytosis is a sharp reduction in a type of white blood cell, and Leukoencephalopathy is a condition affecting the central nervous system.

How should Levicon be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Levicon

Official regulatory guidelines define specific conditions necessary to maintain the quality and stability of Levicon (Levamisole hydrochloride) and ensure safe disposal.


Storage Requirements

Levicon must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically between 20 C and 25 C. It is mandatory to keep the medicine from freezing and to protect it from exposure to both light and moisture. The product should be kept in its original, tightly closed container and, as a critical safety measure, must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.


Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Levicon must be disposed of according to local regulatory standards. The preferred method is using an authorized drug take-back program. If this is unavailable, disposal in the household trash requires mixing the product with an unpalatable substance (like dirt or coffee grounds) and sealing it in a container. It is prohibited to flush Levicon down the toilet or discard it into drains.

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

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