Why tapeworms die out with medication?

Tapeworms are parasitic flatworms that live in the digestive tract of humans and other animals. They can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss, and malnutrition. Tapeworms are typically treated with medication, which works by killing the tapeworm or causing it to detach from the intestinal wall.

There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat tapeworms. The most common type of medication is niclosamide, which is available over the counter. Other medications that can be used to treat tapeworms include praziquantel, albendazole, and mebendazole.

Medication typically kills tapeworms by interfering with their metabolism or by causing damage to their cells. Niclosamide, for example, works by inhibiting the tapeworm's ability to absorb glucose. This causes the tapeworm to starve to death. Praziquantel works by causing damage to the tapeworm's cell membranes. This damage leads to the tapeworm's death.

In some cases, medication may not be effective in killing tapeworms. This can occur if the tapeworm is resistant to the medication or if the medication is not taken correctly. If medication is not effective, surgery may be necessary to remove the tapeworm.

Tapeworms can be a serious health problem, but they can usually be treated effectively with medication. If you think you may have a tapeworm, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.