Adults

For common intestinal worms (e.g., pinworm, hookworm, roundworm, whipworm): 400 mg as a single dose. For strongyloidiasis or taeniasis: 400 mg once daily for 3 consecutive days. For neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days, depending on response. 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.

Elderly

Dosage adjustments are generally not required for elderly patients, unless there is significant renal or hepatic impairment.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment is considered necessary for patients with impaired renal function, but caution should be exercised.

Onset

Varies depending on the type and severity of infestation. Symptomatic relief may begin within a few days, while eradication can take a full course of treatment.

Excretion

Albendazole sulfoxide and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine, with a small amount excreted in the bile. Less than 1% is excreted as unchanged drug.

Half life

The plasma half-life of albendazole sulfoxide is approximately 8-12 hours.

Absorption

Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (<5%). Absorption is significantly increased when taken with a fatty meal. Peak plasma concentration (PPC) of the active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, occurs within 2-5 hours.

Metabolism

Albendazole is rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, which is responsible for most of its anthelmintic activity.

Ritonavir

May decrease albendazole sulfoxide plasma concentrations, potentially reducing efficacy.

Cimetidine

May increase albendazole sulfoxide plasma concentrations by inhibiting its metabolism.

Praziquantel

Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide, potentially enhancing efficacy but also increasing side effects.

Dexamethasone

Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide, potentially beneficial in neurocysticercosis treatment.