Banocide Forte Tablet: Uses, Side Effects, Price, Dosage, and More

Diethylcarbamazine Over The Counter is a well-known anti-parasitic medication widely prescribed for the treatment of filarial infections, tropical eosinophilia, and other parasitic worm infestations. Containing Diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC) as its active ingredient, this medicine plays a crucial role in eliminating microfilariae (the larval stage of worms) from the bloodstream. It is manufactured by several reputable pharmaceutical companies and has been trusted for decades as an effective remedy against parasitic diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Banocide Forte, including its uses, dosage, side effects, price, precautions, and more, to help you understand how this medication works and how to use it safely.

1. What is Banocide Forte Tablet?

Banocide Forte is an anthelmintic (anti-worm) medication primarily used to treat filarial infections caused by Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and other parasites that affect the lymphatic system and bloodstream. It contains Diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC), usually at a strength of 100 mg per tablet.

DEC works by altering the surface structure of microfilariae, making them more susceptible to the body’s immune response. It immobilizes and kills the parasites, helping to clear them from the blood and tissues.

2. Uses of Banocide Forte Tablet

Banocide Forte has multiple medical applications in the treatment and management of parasitic infections. The most common uses include:

a. Lymphatic Filariasis

Banocide Forte is primarily used to treat lymphatic filariasis, a chronic parasitic disease transmitted through mosquito bites. This condition can lead to elephantiasis, characterized by severe swelling of limbs or genital areas. The medicine helps destroy the microfilariae and adult worms responsible for the infection.

b. Tropical Pulmonary Eosinophilia (TPE)

TPE is an allergic reaction caused by filarial infection in the lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Banocide Forte helps relieve these symptoms by eliminating the underlying filarial parasites.

c. Loiasis (African Eye Worm Disease)

Banocide Forte is effective against Loa loa infections, commonly known as African eye worm disease. It reduces microfilarial levels in the bloodstream and helps manage symptoms.

d. Toxocariasis and Other Parasitic Infections

In some cases, it may be prescribed to treat Toxocara canis infections and certain intestinal worm infestations. However, such use should always be under strict medical supervision.

3. How Does Banocide Forte Work?

The active ingredient, Diethylcarbamazine citrate, targets microfilariae (larval worms) and adult worms. It works through several mechanisms:

• Immobilization of parasites: DEC interferes with the parasite’s metabolism, leading to paralysis and death.

• Immune system activation: It enhances the body’s immune response, making it easier for white blood cells to attack and destroy the worms.

• Reduction of microfilarial load: DEC helps clear the bloodstream of microfilariae, breaking the transmission cycle of the infection.

This combined effect leads to a gradual reduction of symptoms such as fever, swelling, and inflammation, improving the patient’s overall health.

4. Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Banocide Forte varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, patient’s age, and medical condition. It is essential to follow your doctor’s prescription precisely.

General Dosage Guidelines:

• Adults: The usual dose is 6 mg per kg body weight per day, divided into three doses for 12 days.

• Children: Dosage is determined by body weight and prescribed by a pediatrician.

• For prophylaxis: In areas where filariasis is endemic, smaller doses may be used as preventive therapy.

How to Take Banocide Forte:

• Take the tablet after food with a glass of water to minimize stomach discomfort.

• Do not skip doses or stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve.

• Always complete the full course prescribed to ensure complete elimination of parasites.

5. Possible Side Effects of Banocide Forte

Like all medications, Banocide Forte may cause side effects in some individuals. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but medical attention is necessary if they persist or worsen.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Fatigue or weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Mild fever

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling

• Shortness of breath or wheezing

• Joint or muscle pain

• Severe abdominal pain

• Visual disturbances (in cases of loiasis treatment)

Some side effects result not from the medicine itself but from the body’s immune response to dying parasites. Doctors may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce these reactions.

6. Precautions and Warnings

Before taking Banocide Forte, it’s essential to inform your doctor about your medical history and current medications.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before use, as safety data are limited.

• Liver or kidney disease: Dose adjustments may be needed for patients with hepatic or renal impairment.

• Allergic conditions: People with asthma or severe allergies should use Banocide Forte cautiously.

• Concurrent infections: Medical supervision is crucial when treating co-existing parasitic diseases.

Avoid alcohol during treatment, as it can increase the risk of liver strain or side effects.

7. Drug Interactions

Banocide Forte may interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects.
Inform your doctor if you are taking:

• Antihistamines or corticosteroids

• Other antiparasitic or antifilarial drugs

• Medications for liver or kidney disorders

Your doctor will evaluate potential interactions and adjust treatment as necessary.

8. Price and Availability

Banocide Forte Tablets are widely available in pharmacies and online medical stores across India and other countries.

• Pack Size: Typically available in strips of 30 or 100 tablets

• Strength: Each tablet contains 100 mg of Diethylcarbamazine citrate

• Price Range (India): ₹15 – ₹40 per strip of 30 tablets (prices may vary by brand and location)

It is an affordable and accessible medication, making it a preferred choice for treating parasitic infections in resource-limited regions.

9. Storage Instructions

To ensure Banocide Forte remains effective:

• Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C.

• Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Do not use after the expiry date mentioned on the pack.

10. Summary

Banocide Forte Tablet is a proven and affordable antiparasitic medication that plays a vital role in controlling and treating filarial infections and related conditions. Containing Diethylcarbamazine citrate, it works by killing parasites and aiding the immune system in clearing infections.

While generally well-tolerated, mild side effects such as nausea, headache, and fatigue may occur. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage regimen, complete the full treatment course, and consult a doctor for any persistent or severe reactions.

With proper medical guidance, Banocide Forte offers safe, effective, and lasting relief from debilitating parasitic infections, helping restore overall health and well-being.