Almex
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
The Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Almex (Albendazole) is an anthelmintic agent effective against a wide range of intestinal and tissue parasites. It works by preventing the parasites from absorbing glucose, leading to their death.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Intestinal helminthes: 400 mg single dose for most infections. Strongyloidiasis or Taeniasis: 400 mg once daily for 3 consecutive days. Hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 28 days, followed by a 14-day drug-free interval, up to 3 cycles. Neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment needed unless there is significant renal or hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Almex tablets can be chewed, swallowed, or crushed and mixed with food. For optimal absorption, especially in tissue infections, it should be taken with a fatty meal.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole binds to beta-tubulin, an essential structural protein of microtubules in parasitic worms. This binding inhibits microtubule polymerization, leading to the disruption of glucose uptake and energy metabolism in the parasite, ultimately resulting in its immobilization and death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies depending on the type of infection; for intestinal infections, effects are seen within hours to days.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as metabolites, with a small amount excreted in bile.
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide: approximately 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (<5%); absorption is increased with a fatty meal.
Metabolism
Extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy (Albendazole is teratogenic in animals).
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May decrease plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptomatic treatment and general supportive measures should be employed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for at least one month after treatment. Caution is advised during lactation; consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Albendazole or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy (Albendazole is teratogenic in animals).
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May decrease plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptomatic treatment and general supportive measures should be employed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for at least one month after treatment. Caution is advised during lactation; consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Albendazole has undergone extensive clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety for various parasitic infections, including WHO-sponsored programs for mass drug administration.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be performed before and periodically during treatment, especially for prolonged courses or higher doses.
- Complete blood count (CBC) should be monitored for signs of bone marrow suppression, particularly with long-term therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure patient is not pregnant before initiating treatment. Advise effective contraception.
- Monitor liver function tests and complete blood counts periodically for patients on prolonged or high-dose therapy.
- Advise patients to take Almex with a fatty meal to optimize absorption.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Take with a fatty meal to improve absorption.
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
Almendazole may cause dizziness in some individuals. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hygiene, especially hand washing, to prevent reinfection.
- Ensure proper sanitation and avoid consuming contaminated food or water.
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