Treatment for cysticercosis tapeworm.

• A. Albendazole
• B. Mebendazole
• C. Praziquantel
• D. Metronidazole

Answer: (C)

Treating cysticercosis aims to kill the larval cysts (cysticerci) that have invaded tissues. Praziquantel is favored because it reliably kills cysticerci and reaches effective levels in both body tissues and the central nervous system, allowing the parasites to be destroyed systemically. When these cysts die, inflammation can worsen symptoms, so corticosteroids are often given alongside to blunt that inflammatory response and protect the brain from swelling. While another drug like albendazole can also be used and is effective, praziquantel is a well-established option for tissue cysticercosis. Drugs such as metronidazole aren’t used for tapeworms, and mebendazole is less effective against cysticerci, which is why praziquantel is the best choice here.