Albendazole 400 mg Tablet

Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic (anti-worm) medication used to treat a wide range of parasitic worm infestations. It is effective against intestinal and tissue parasites, making it a common choice in both individual treatment and mass deworming programs.

 

Active Ingredient:

• Albendazole 400 mg per tablet

 

Mechanism of Action:

Albendazole works by inhibiting the uptake of glucose by parasites, which depletes their energy stores. It also disrupts microtubule formation in parasitic cells, ultimately leading to their death.

Dosage and Administration:

• Adults and children over 2 years:

  • 400 mg as a single dose for most intestinal worm infections

• Children 1–2 years:

  • 200 mg as a single dose

• For more complex infections like neurocysticercosis or hydatid disease:

  • Prolonged and higher-dose treatment may be required (e.g., 400 mg twice daily for several weeks), under medical supervision

 

Precautions:

• Pregnancy: Not recommended, especially during the first trimester

• Breastfeeding: Use with caution and under medical advice

• Liver disease: Use carefully in patients with hepatic impairment

• Blood counts: May be monitored in long-term use, as it can cause temporary reduction in white blood cells

 

Possible Side Effects:

Common (usually mild):

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• Headache

• Dizziness

Less common:

• Elevated liver enzymes (in prolonged use)

• Temporary hair loss (with long courses)

• Rash or allergic reactions

Rare but serious (long-term use):

• Bone marrow suppression

• Liver toxicity

• Seizures (in neurocysticercosis, due to inflammatory response to dying parasites)

 

Drug Interactions:

• May interact with cimetidine, dexamethasone, or praziquantel, which can increase albendazole levels

• Should not be used with drugs that may suppress bone marrow unless under strict medical supervision

 

Storage:

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C)

• Keep away from moisture and heat

• Keep out of reach of children