Drug of choice for neurocysticercosis is :
**Core Concept**
Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of Taenia solium. The treatment of choice involves antiparasitic medications that can eliminate the cysts from the brain.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The drug of choice for neurocysticercosis is albendazole, a benzimidazole carbamate that acts by inhibiting the microtubule polymerization, thereby preventing the parasite from feeding and eventually killing it. Albendazole has a good penetration into the cerebrospinal fluid and is effective in eliminating the cysts from the brain. The treatment typically involves a combination of albendazole with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent seizures.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Praziquantel is not the drug of choice for neurocysticercosis. It is effective against other parasitic infections like schistosomiasis but has poor penetration into the brain and is not effective against Taenia solium cysts.
**Option B:** Ivermectin is not typically used for neurocysticercosis. It is effective against other parasitic infections like onchocerciasis and strongyloidiasis but is not the first-line treatment for neurocysticercosis.
**Option C:** Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is effective against anaerobic infections but is not used to treat neurocysticercosis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In patients with neurocysticercosis, it is essential to start with a high dose of albendazole (15 mg/kg/day) and gradually taper the dose over 30 days to minimize the risk of seizures and other neurological complications.
**Correct Answer:** C. Albendazole is the drug of choice for neurocysticercosis.