Medicine Information

Alphin-DS

Name: Alphin-DS
Brand: Alphin-DS
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Chewable Tablet400 mgAnthelminticATC: P02CA03

Generic Name

Albendazole 400 mg Chewable Tablet

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
alphin ds 400 mg chewable tablet	৳ 5.00	৳ 5.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Alphin-DS 400 mg Chewable Tablet contains Albendazole, an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infestations. It prevents worms from absorbing sugar, leading to their death.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of single or mixed intestinal helminthiasis (e.g., ascariasis, enterobiasis, hookworm, trichuriasis)

Neurocysticercosis

Hydatid disease (echinococcosis)

Dosage

Adults

For common intestinal worms: 400 mg as a single dose. For neurocysticercosis/hydatid disease: Dosage varies, usually 400 mg twice daily for varying periods.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment required, but caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment necessary for renal impairment.

How to Take

Chew the tablet completely before swallowing, preferably with a fatty meal for enhanced absorption. No food restriction for single-dose treatment of intestinal helminthiasis.

Mechanism of Action

Albendazole binds to beta-tubulin, inhibiting microtubule polymerization in parasitic helminths. This disrupts glucose uptake, leading to glycogen depletion and eventual death of the worms.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Varies by infestation, typically within hours to days for noticeable effects.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in the urine as metabolites, with a small amount excreted in the bile.

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 enhanced when taken with a fatty meal.

Metabolism

Rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver to albendazole sulfoxide, its primary active metabolite.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to Albendazole or other benzimidazole derivatives
Pregnancy (unless benefits outweigh risks in specific conditions)

Drug Interactions

Ritonavir

May decrease plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.

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

In case of overdose, symptomatic treatment and general supportive measures should be instituted.

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 if albendazole or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; use with caution during lactation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

1 tablet (single dose pack)3 tablets (for multi-day courses)

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date

Availability

Pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA

Patent Status

Generic available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of albendazole in various helminthic infections.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (baseline and every 2 weeks during prolonged high-dose therapy)
Complete blood count (baseline and periodically during long-term therapy)

Doctor Notes

Advise patients to chew the tablet thoroughly for optimal effect.
Emphasize the importance of taking with a fatty meal for systemic infections.
Monitor liver enzymes and blood counts during prolonged therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing for best results.
Take with food, especially a fatty meal, for optimal absorption.
Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed during multi-day treatment, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not double dose.