New Uses of Levamisole, October 15, 1996

New Uses of Levamisole, October 15, 1996

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Originally a deworming drug used to treat amoebic protozoa and hepatic hydatid disease, it has recently been found to have a significant immunostimulatory effect. This effect can only be achieved with intermittent administration; continuous use results in a pronounced suppressive effect. Therefore, levamisole should be administered at 50 mg three times daily by mouth, preferably on two days per week. It must never be taken every day of the week—doing so would be counterproductive! The drug’s antitumor effects are particularly prominent in breast cancer. It can also be used for connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. For antiviral purposes, it is employed in viral illnesses like herpes and oral ulcers. Overall, due to its immune-enhancing properties, this medication can be used to treat a range of autoimmune disorders and even reduce erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In addition, levamisole can also treat stubborn pediatric skin and upper respiratory tract infections.