Hycanthone is primarily used in the treatment of schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease caused by blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma. It acts as an effective antischistosomal agent, targeting the parasite and reducing its viability within the host. The compound is often administered as an intramuscular injection, providing a relatively rapid therapeutic effect. Hycanthone is particularly valued for its ability to treat infections caused by Schistosoma mansoni, one of the major species responsible for the disease. However, its use is limited due to potential side effects, including hepatotoxicity and mutagenicity, which have led to the development of safer alternatives in recent years. Despite these limitations, it remains a significant historical compound in the fight against schistosomiasis.