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Purpose: To identify advances in knowledge of the pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, clinical use, and side effects of the antihelminthic drug praziquantel in the 5 years since its introduction in the United States.

Data Identification: Studies reported from 1983 to July 1988 were identified by computer searches of MEDLINE and TOXLINE, and review of textbooks and review articles.

Study Selection: Of 57 articles originally identified, 39 were selected by two readers.

Data Extraction: Study quality and significance were independently assessed by each reader.

Results of Data Analysis: The pharmacokinetics and clinical efficacy of praziquantel have been well documented. Yet, despite extensive in vivo and in vitro laboratory studies, the drug's mechanism of action in killing parasites is unknown. Although the efficacy of praziquantel was first …