Tapeworm drug could help treat endometriosis, mouse study hints

A modified drug initially designed to treat tapeworm infections has shown promise in addressing endometriosis, an early study in mice suggests. Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, pain, and heavy menstrual bleeding. In the new study, researchers engineered niclosamide, a common tapeworm medication, with nanotech enhancements to specifically target these painful lesions in laboratory mice.

The treatment resulted in reduced inflammation and inhibited the spread of lesions, according to researchers from the University of Washington State and Michigan who reported their findings in the journal Advanced Healthcare Materials. The team plans to advance this drug through clinical trials, providing hope for the 190 million women worldwide affected by this condition, which currently lacks a cure.