Albendox
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Albendazole is an anthelmintic medication used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infestations. It works by preventing the worms from absorbing sugar, which depletes their energy stores and leads to their death.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For common intestinal worms (Ascariasis, Hookworm, Pinworm, Whipworm): 400 mg as a single dose. For Strongyloidiasis, Cutaneous Larva Migrans: 400 mg once daily for 3 days. For Hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 28 days, followed by a 14-day drug-free interval, for a total of 3 cycles. For Neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days.
Elderly
Dosage adjustments generally not required, but monitor renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment required.
How to Take
Take with food, especially fatty meals, to enhance absorption. Tablets can be chewed, crushed, or swallowed whole.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole binds to beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization in parasitic worms. This impairs glucose uptake, leading to depletion of glycogen stores and ATP, ultimately immobilizing and killing the worm.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type; symptom improvement typically within hours to days.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine as metabolites (less than 1% as unchanged drug).
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide (active metabolite) half-life is 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the GI tract (less than 5%). Absorption is increased with fatty meals.
Metabolism
Rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazoles
- Severe hepatic dysfunction
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Praziquantel
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Dexamethasone
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, supportive treatment and symptomatic management should be initiated. Activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus (Category C). It is not known whether albendazole is excreted in human milk; caution advised during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazoles
- Severe hepatic dysfunction
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Praziquantel
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Dexamethasone
Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, supportive treatment and symptomatic management should be initiated. Activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus (Category C). It is not known whether albendazole is excreted in human milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established its efficacy and safety for various parasitic infections worldwide.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests (LFTs) should be monitored, especially during prolonged treatment.
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on proper hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Consider co-administration with a fatty meal to improve bioavailability.
- Monitor CBC and LFTs, especially with prolonged therapy for systemic infections.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
- Take with food, especially fatty meals.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness. Patients should be cautioned about driving or operating machinery until they know how albendazole affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene (e.g., wash hands frequently).
- Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat.
- Drink safe, filtered water.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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