Alda
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| alda 200 mg suspension | ৳ 15.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Alda 200 mg Suspension contains Albendazole, an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections in humans.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Intestinal helminthes: 400 mg as a single dose. Systemic infections (e.g., Hydatid disease): 400 mg twice daily for varying durations.
Elderly
Generally, no dose adjustment is required for elderly patients unless there is significant renal or hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is needed for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe cases.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with a fatty meal to enhance absorption. Shake the suspension well before use. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole selectively binds to beta-tubulin in the intestinal cells of parasitic worms, inhibiting microtubule polymerization. This disrupts glucose uptake, depletes glycogen stores, and ultimately leads to the immobility and death of the worms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Variable, some effects within hours, but complete eradication takes longer depending on the infection.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine as metabolites, with a small amount excreted in bile.
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide (active metabolite): 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption is significantly increased when taken with a fatty meal.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver to the primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, via first-pass metabolism.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease the clearance of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Closely monitor vital signs and liver function.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C. Albendazole is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy due to potential teratogenicity. Use in later trimesters and during lactation only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease the clearance of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In cases of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered. Closely monitor vital signs and liver function.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C. Albendazole is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy due to potential teratogenicity. Use in later trimesters and during lactation only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA, Bangladesh
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Albendazole has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various helminthic infections, leading to its inclusion in WHO's essential medicines list.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be performed before and periodically during prolonged therapy (especially for systemic infections).
- Complete blood count (CBC) monitoring, especially with prolonged high-dose therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent recurrence and resistance.
- Advise patients to take with a fatty meal to optimize absorption.
- Monitor LFTs and CBC in patients on prolonged therapy, especially for systemic infections.
Patient Guidelines
- Always complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to prevent recurrence.
- Take the medication with food, preferably fatty food, to maximize absorption.
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infection.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, 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 double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Albendazole may cause dizziness in some individuals. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet.
- Ensure proper sanitation and avoid consuming contaminated food or water.
- Regularly clean living spaces and bedding.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.