emodepside

Emodepside is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic drug effective against a variety of gastrointestinal nematodes. It is licensed for use in cats and dogs, primarily to treat and control hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. Emodepside belongs to the octadepsipeptide class of anthelmintics—a relatively new class distinguished by its unique mechanism of action. The drug acts mainly by agonizing the calcium-dependent potassium channel SLO‑1 (BK channel), leading to hyperpolarization and inhibition of neuromuscular function in nematodes, resulting in paralysis or reduced pharyngeal pumping. There is also evidence that emodepside interacts with latrophilin receptors (LAT‑1/LAT‑2), but SLO‑1 appears to be the major receptor mediating its effect[1][5][6][8]. Originally developed for veterinary use, emodepside is now being investigated as a potential treatment for human parasitic diseases such as onchocerciasis (river blindness), trichuriasis (whipworm infection), and hookworm infections[1][4]. Clinical development for human use includes completed Phase I studies and ongoing Phase II trials[4].

Brand names

Profender

Other names

EmodepsidaémodepsideEmodepsidum