The Sound of Evolution
Pyrantel pamoate
Mechanism of action:
Pyrantel pamoate is a depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent and acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. Pyrantel pamoate activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the motor end-plate of nematodes, causing the ion channels to remain persistently open. This prevents repolarization, disrupts neuromuscular transmission, and induces spastic paralysis.
Reference(s):
1. Aubry ML et al. (1970). Aspects of the pharmacology of a new anthelmintic: pyrantel. Br J Pharmacol.
2. Rayes D et al. (2001). The anthelmintic pyrantel acts as a low efficacious agonist and an open-channel blocker of mammalian acetylcholine receptors. Neuropharmacology.
3. Gokbulut C et al. (2014). Plasma pharmacokinetics, faecal excretion and efficacy of pyrantel pamoate paste and granule formulations following per os administration in donkeys naturally infected with intestinal strongylidae. Vet Parasitol.