Effect of praziquantel on serum glucose and insulin levels in normal and hyperglycemic rats.

The effects of praziquantel (CAS 55268-74-1) on serum glucose and insulin levels in normoglycemic and hyperglycemic rats were studied. Also the combined effect of praziquantel and glibenclamide (CAS 10238-21-8) on oral glucose tolerance in rats was investigated. Praziquantel, given orally in a dose of 250 mg/kg, significantly increased serum glucose level in hyperglycemic rats without changing serum insulin level. After oral glucose load, praziquantel produced a significant increase in serum glucose level and antagonized the hypoglycemic action of glibenclamide. These results indicate that praziquantel significantly increased serum glucose level in both hyperglycemic rats and after glucose load. Since insulin levels are not significantly altered by praziquantel, the hyperglycemic effect of this drug may be attributed to inhibition of peripheral glucose utilization. Care should be taken if praziquantel is prescribed to diabetic patients.