Neurological disease resulting from neurocysticercosis (NCC) is common in most of the world. The variability in the biology of the infection and in its clinical manifestations has led to much confusion regarding appropriate management. Therapeutic options have evolved from surgery, symptomatic measures, and steroids, to include the use of anti-parasitic drugs and minimally invasive neurosurgery. This manuscript reviews the principles of medical therapy for NCC, from discussion of the need for individualized management approaches for each type of NCC to exploration of the most likely potential additions or modifications currently under study. © W. S. Maney & Son Ltd 2012.