Cysticidal activity of praziquantel-mebendazole combination: In vitro and in vivo studies

•Praziquantel (PZQ) displays a sinergistic interaction with mebendazole (MBZ).•The combination exibited the cystidal effect in a shorter time than single drugs.•The cysticidal effect of the PZQ-MBZ combination was higher than single drugs.•PZQ combined with MBZ could improve the PZQ efficacy for cysticercosis treatment. The current pharmacological treatment of neurocysticercosis is based on two drugs, praziquantel (PZQ) and albendazole; however, suboptimal efficacy has been documented. Previous studies, have documented the activity of mebendazole (MBZ) against Taenia sp, and its capability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Considering this information and in an effort to search other options for neurocysticercosis treatment, the present study was designed to assess the in vitro and in vivo activity of the PZQ-MBZ combination against Taenia crassiceps metacestodes. For the in vitro studies T. crassiceps cysticerci (ORF strain) were used and the analysis of the combinations was performed using the Surface of Synergistic Interaction (SSI). For the in vivo evaluation the experimental infection model of T. crassiceps ORF in Balb-C mice was used. In vitro results showed that the combination of PZQ 121.6 nM-MBZ 5.1 nM exhibited the highest synergic cysticidal effect. In vivo, the PZQ-MBZ combination (25 mg/kg - 50 mg/kg, respectively) was more effective than each drug alone. The findings indicate that PZQ in combination with MBZ could be a promising alternative for the treatment of neurocysticercosis. Complementary studies are required to confirm its clinical applicability. Summary: The present paper reports the synergistic interaction between praziquantel and mebendazole against Taenia crassiceps metacestodes in vitro and in vivo. [Display omitted]