Piperazine Citrate BP
Piperazine Citrate BP is a pharmaceutical-grade anthelmintic compound used primarily for the treatment of intestinal worm infections, especially ascariasis (roundworms) and enterobiasis (pinworms). It works by paralyzing the worms, allowing them to be expelled naturally from the body through bowel movements. Piperazine Citrate is included in the British Pharmacopoeia (BP) and is known for its safety, efficacy, and wide use in both human and veterinary medicine.
Primary Uses
Human Pharmaceutical Use
Anthelmintic agent for treatment of:
Enterobiasis (pinworm infection)
Ascariasis (roundworm infection)
Often used in pediatric deworming due to its mild action and safety profile.
Formulated in oral syrups, tablets, and powders for suspension.
Veterinary Medicine
Used in deworming companion animals (dogs, cats) and livestock (pigs, poultry, sheep).
Administered orally in powder or liquid form.
Effective in treating gastrointestinal nematodes in animals.
Public Health and Mass Deworming Programs
Included in school-based deworming initiatives and community health campaigns in endemic areas.
Favored for its affordability and low toxicity.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in anthelmintic formulations.
Complies with BP standards ensuring identity, purity, and potency.
Secondary Uses
Research & Laboratory Use
Utilized in parasitology studies to understand nematode neuromuscular function.
Serves as a reference standard in drug quality control testing.
Formulation Base
Sometimes used as a base compound for combination therapies with other anthelmintics (e.g., albendazole or mebendazole).
Alternative Deworming in Sensitive Patients
Selected for patients with allergies or contraindications to other deworming agents.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Piperazine-1,4-diium citrate
Common/Trade Name: Piperazine Citrate
CAS Number: 144-29-6
HS Code: 2933.59.90 (Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen)
Synonyms: Diacid piperazine salt; Piperazine dihydrogen citrate
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Crystalline powder
Color & Odor: White or almost white; odorless
Solubility: Freely soluble in water; insoluble in alcohol and ether
pH (1% solution): ~4.0–5.0
Molecular Formula: C10H20N2·C6H8O7
Molecular Weight: Approx. 324.34 g/mol
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Generally not hazardous under normal use
Toxicity: Low; well-tolerated even in pediatric patients
Overdose Risk: Mild symptoms such as nausea or dizziness if overdosed
Exposure Limits: Not specifically established; handle with care
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place (15–25°C)
Container Type: Sealed pharmaceutical-grade containers or drums
Shelf Life: 2–3 years under recommended conditions
Handling Precautions: Avoid contact with moisture; use gloves and dust mask when handling in bulk
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:
British Pharmacopoeia (BP)
WHO Essential Medicines List (for anthelmintics)
GMP standards for pharmaceutical production
Approved for human and veterinary use in many countries
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when used and disposed of properly
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Allergenic Potential: Very low
PPE Required: Gloves, mask, and eye protection when handling large quantities
Handling Guidelines: Minimize dust generation; ensure proper ventilation in bulk processing areas
Storage Measures: Store in a dry, sealed container; protect from light and moisture
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash with water and soap; discontinue use if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help if discomfort continues
Ingestion (Accidental or Overdose): Drink water; do not induce vomiting; consult a healthcare provider immediately
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚
Special Precautions: Avoid inhalation of combustion fumes
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce nitrogen oxides and carbon oxides in extreme heat