Albendox
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Beacon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| albendox 400 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 4.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Albendazole is an anthelmintic medication used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infestations. It is effective against roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, pinworms, and some tapeworms. The 400 mg chewable tablet is convenient for administration.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For common intestinal worms (Ascaris, Hookworm, Whipworm, Pinworm): 400 mg as a single dose. For Strongyloidiasis or Taeniasis: 400 mg once daily for 3 consecutive days. For Hydatid disease/Neurocysticercosis: Doses vary, typically 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days, possibly in cycles.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but monitor for hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is usually required for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases due to limited data.
How to Take
The tablet can be chewed, crushed, or swallowed whole with water. It is recommended to take it with a fatty meal (e.g., milk, butter, or fatty foods) to significantly enhance its absorption, especially for systemic infections.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole works by selectively binding to beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization in the intestinal cells of the worms. This disrupts the worms' glucose uptake, depletes their energy reserves, leading to immobilization and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type and site, generally within hours to days for noticeable effects.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the urine as metabolites, with a small amount excreted in bile.
Half life
The elimination half-life of albendazole sulfoxide is approximately 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the GI tract (<5%); absorption is significantly increased with a fatty meal. Peak plasma concentrations of its active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, occur within 2-5 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively and rapidly metabolized in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, and then to inactive sulfone and hydroxylated metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester); women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for one month after treatment.
- Bone marrow suppression (caution in patients with pre-existing bone marrow disorders).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease plasma levels of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide by up to 50%.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed as necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. In later trimesters, use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation, or consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester); women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for one month after treatment.
- Bone marrow suppression (caution in patients with pre-existing bone marrow disorders).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease plasma levels of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide by up to 50%.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed as necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. In later trimesters, use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts are excreted in breast milk; use with caution during lactation, or consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals, Clinics
Approval Status
Approved (Globally)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Albendazole has undergone extensive clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety for various helminthic infections. It is a well-established anthelmintic on the WHO Essential Medicines List. Ongoing research explores its broader applications and resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be performed before starting treatment and every two weeks during extended high-dose therapy, especially for hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis.
- Complete blood count (CBC) should be monitored at the beginning of each 28-day cycle and every two weeks during therapy due to the risk of bone marrow suppression.
Doctor Notes
- For optimal systemic absorption, especially in cases like neurocysticercosis or hydatid disease, advise patients to take albendazole with a high-fat meal.
- Emphasize the importance of completing the full prescribed course to eradicate the infection and prevent recurrence.
- Counsel patients on proper hygiene practices to prevent re-infection and transmission within households.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve.
- Chew or crush the tablet before swallowing, or swallow whole with water. Take it with a fatty meal to improve absorption.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
- Report any persistent or severe side effects, especially fever, sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding, or yellowing of skin/eyes.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Albendazole may cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before preparing food, to prevent re-infection.
- Ensure proper sanitation in your living environment and avoid consuming contaminated food or water.
- If treating pinworms, treat all household members to prevent cross-infection.
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