Derquantel is a semi-synthetic paraherquamide analog, derived from a fermentation product of Penicillium simplicissimum via chemical reduction. It is an anthelmintic spiroindole that acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. Derquantel is a potent nematocide and was the first paraherquamide to be successfully commercialised in combination with avermectin. The compound is prepared by removal of the 2-oxo group in a four-step sequence of N-protection, reduction, N-deprotection and a final reduction.
Derquantel is soluble in ethanol, methanol, DMF and DMSO.
