Albendazole and praziquantel combination versus albendazole alone in children with multiple neurocysticercosis: An open labelled randomized controlled trial

Abstract

ABSTRACT Context: The efficacy of the combination of albendazole and praziquantel has not been thoroughly studied in multiple neurocysticercosis in children. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of albendazole and praziquantel combination versus albendazole alone in the treatment of children with multiple neurocysticercosis in terms of proportion of cysts undergoing complete resolution or calcification at 6-month follow-up. Materials and Methods: A total of 52 children, aged 1–14 years, with newly diagnosed two or more active neurocysticercosis were randomized to either group A or B. Group A (n = 26) received albendazole plus praziquantel, and Group B (n = 26) received albendazole alone. At the end of 6 months, a repeat MRI brain was performed to see for the resolution of cysts and was classified as complete resolution, calcified, or persistence of viable and noncalcified cysts. Results: The proportion of cysts undergoing complete resolution was higher in Group A (23/60 [38.33%]) than in Group B (19/65 [29.23%]), but the difference was not statistically significant. The proportion of cysts undergoing calcification was also comparable in Group A (20/60 [33.33%]) and Group B (20/65 [30.77%]). Both groups had comparable safety profiles. Conclusion: Albendazole and praziquantel combination therapy is as effective as albendazole alone in terms of complete resolution of viable cysts and calcification of cysts. Trial registration: CTRI/2021/12/038492.