Almex
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| almex 400 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 5.02 | ৳ 20.08 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Almex 400 mg Chewable Tablet contains Albendazole, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic used to treat various parasitic worm infections in humans.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For common infections (e.g., ascariasis, hookworm, pinworm): 400 mg as a single dose. For strongyloidiasis or taeniasis: 400 mg once daily for 3 days. For neurocysticercosis or hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days, as directed by physician.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is generally required, but caution should be exercised in patients with hepatic or severe renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment is required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Data for severe renal impairment is limited; use with caution.
How to Take
The tablet should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. It can also be crushed and mixed with a small amount of water or food. It is recommended to take Almex with a fatty meal to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole selectively binds to beta-tubulin in intestinal and tegumental cells of helminths, inhibiting microtubule polymerization. This leads to impaired glucose uptake, depletion of glycogen stores, and reduced ATP production, ultimately paralyzing and killing the worms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects are typically seen within a few days to a week, depending on the type of infection.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as its sulfoxide and other metabolites; less than 1% is excreted in bile.
Half life
The plasma half-life of its active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, is approximately 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (less than 5%). Absorption is significantly increased when taken with a fatty meal.
Metabolism
Extensive and rapid first-pass metabolism in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, and then to other inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or any other component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
- Patients with severe liver disease.
Drug Interactions
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease the plasma concentration of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Cimetidine, Dexamethasone, Praziquantel
May increase plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed. Symptomatic treatment should be provided as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole is teratogenic in animals and should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. If essential, the potential benefits must outweigh the risks. It is excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or any other component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
- Patients with severe liver disease.
Drug Interactions
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease the plasma concentration of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Cimetidine, Dexamethasone, Praziquantel
May increase plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed. Symptomatic treatment should be provided as needed.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole is teratogenic in animals and should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. If essential, the potential benefits must outweigh the risks. It is excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, specific details on packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Albendazole has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various helminthic infections. Ongoing research explores its use in combination therapies and for rare parasitic diseases.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be performed before and periodically during prolonged high-dose therapy.
- Complete blood count (CBC) should be monitored, especially for prolonged treatment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on proper administration (chew, with fatty meal) and importance of completing the full course.
- For prolonged therapy, monitor LFTs and CBC due to potential hepatotoxicity and bone marrow suppression.
- Counsel on hygiene practices to prevent re-infection.
Patient Guidelines
- Chew the tablet thoroughly or crush it before swallowing.
- Take with a fatty meal to improve absorption.
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if you feel better.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infection.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Almendazole may cause dizziness in some individuals. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how Almendazole affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hand hygiene, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Cook meat to proper temperatures.
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