Ale-DS
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Leading Pharmaceutical Company
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ale ds 400 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 4.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ale-DS 400 mg Chewable Tablet contains Albendazole, an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections. It works by preventing the worms from absorbing sugar (glucose), depleting their energy stores, and eventually killing them.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For common worm infections: 400 mg as a single dose. For neurocysticercosis/hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days, depending on condition.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment needed, but caution with hepatic/renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for renal impairment, but caution is advised.
How to Take
Chew the tablet completely before swallowing, or crush it and mix with food. Can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a fatty meal can enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole selectively binds to beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization in the intestinal cells of parasitic worms. This disrupts glucose uptake and leads to depletion of glycogen stores, resulting in the immobilization and death of the parasites.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours, full therapeutic effect within days.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via bile, with a small amount excreted in urine as metabolites.
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide (active metabolite) has a half-life of 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (less than 5%). Absorption is increased with fatty meals.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazoles.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headache, dizziness, and liver enzyme elevations. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Albendazole is contraindicated in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential teratogenic effects. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether albendazole is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazoles.
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester).
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headache, dizziness, and liver enzyme elevations. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Albendazole is contraindicated in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential teratogenic effects. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether albendazole is excreted in human milk, so caution is advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic, off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied and clinically proven for its anthelmintic efficacy across various parasitic infections.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (especially for prolonged therapy)
- Complete blood count (for prolonged therapy, due to potential bone marrow suppression)
Doctor Notes
- Confirm diagnosis before initiation of treatment, especially for systemic infections.
- Advise patients on proper hygiene to prevent re-infection.
- Monitor LFTs and CBC during prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing.
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Pregnant women should not take this medicine.
Missed Dose Advice
Since it's often a single dose for common worm infections, missing it means you should take it as soon as you remember. If it's part of a multi-day regimen, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness in some patients. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hygiene to prevent re-infection (e.g., frequent hand washing).
- Ensure proper sanitation and food preparation.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.