Which drug is known to kill parasites by blocking glucose uptake in the helminth?

Mebendazole is recognized for its mechanism of action involving the inhibition of glucose uptake in helminthic parasites. This disruption in glucose metabolism impairs the energy production that the parasites rely on for survival, ultimately leading to their death. Mebendazole acts on the microtubules of the intestinal cells of the parasites, preventing their ability to absorb glucose effectively. As a result, the parasites are unable to sustain their necessary physiological functions, contributing to their effectiveness as an anthelmintic agent.

In contrast, other options may utilize different mechanisms. For example, albendazole also affects glucose uptake, but its primary action involves disrupting the polymerization of microtubules. Praziquantel works by increasing the permeability of the cell membrane to calcium ions, resulting in paralysis of the parasites. Pyrantel acts as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker, leading to paralysis but not directly targeting glucose uptake. Thus, identifying the unique mechanism of mebendazole helps reinforce why it is known specifically for blocking glucose metabolism in helminths.