Anthelmintic (anti-worm medicine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Diethylcarbamazine is an anti-worm medicine that kills certain parasitic worms (filarial worms) living in your blood and body tissues by paralyzing them so your immune system can destroy them.
Inhibits microtubule assembly in filarial worms by binding to β-tubulin, causing paralysis and immobilization of adult worms and microfilariae, facilitating their clearance by the immune system.
Filariasis (worm infection that causes swollen legs or private parts), elephantiasis, tropical pulmonary eosinophilia (a type of lung problem caused by worms), river blindness-related worm infections, loiasis (African eye worm)
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Is Diethylcarbamazine safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
Always complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better, as stopping early means the worms may not be fully cleared. Only take this medicine under a doctor's prescription; do not buy from roadside sellers or self-medicate, as the dose must be carefully calculated. The fever and body pain you may feel in the first few days is often a reaction to the worms dying, so tell your doctor, but do not stop the medicine on your own.
Avoid taking diethylcarbamazine together with ivermectin or albendazole unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as the combination needs medical supervision. Alcohol can increase dizziness and side effects, so avoid drinking while on this medicine. Corticosteroid drugs (like prednisolone) are sometimes given alongside to reduce the body's reaction to dying worms, and should only be used if prescribed.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Diethylcarbamazine with your other drugs?
Diethylcarbamazine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not take it unless your doctor specifically says the benefit outweighs the risk.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep the medicine in its original container and always keep it out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.