What is a common side effect of several anthelmintic medications?

Abdominal cramps are a common side effect experienced with several anthelmintic medications. These drugs work by targeting the parasitic worms in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to their expulsion from the body. As the worms are killed or disrupted, the body may react to this process, resulting in discomfort, which can manifest as abdominal cramps. This reaction is typically due to the increased peristalsis and irritation in the intestines caused by the presence of dying parasites.

Other side effects related to the gastrointestinal system, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, may also occur, but abdominal cramps are frequently noted due to their direct correlation with the mechanism of action of these anthelmintic agents.