Durazol
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| durazol 400 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 4.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Durazol 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), which is vital for their survival, ultimately killing them.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Most intestinal helminth infections: 400 mg as a single dose. Hydatid disease/Neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily for 8-30 days, depending on condition.
Elderly
No dose adjustment generally required, but monitor renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment needed, as albendazole is minimally excreted via kidneys. However, caution is advised.
How to Take
This is a chewable tablet. It should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take it with a fatty meal. For some infections, a second course may be necessary after a few weeks.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole binds to colchicine-sensitive tubulin, thereby inhibiting tubulin polymerization and assembly into microtubules. This disrupts vital functions in helminths, including glucose uptake and motility, leading to the depletion of the worm's energy reserves and eventual death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type, generally within days for most intestinal infections.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites, with a small amount in bile. Less than 1% of the active metabolite is excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide: 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (<5%) but rapidly metabolized in the liver to albendazole sulfoxide, which is the active metabolite. Absorption is significantly increased when taken with a fatty meal.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver (first-pass effect) by sulfoxidation to the primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, and then further oxidized to albendazole sulfone.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Breastfeeding (caution)
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease plasma concentrations of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations 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 and supportive measures should be initiated. Gastric lavage and appropriate supportive therapy may be administered. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential teratogenic effects. Use only if potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is unknown if albendazole or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Breastfeeding (caution)
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease plasma concentrations of theophylline; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations 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 and supportive measures should be initiated. Gastric lavage and appropriate supportive therapy may be administered. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential teratogenic effects. Use only if potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is unknown if albendazole or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by local regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic, off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of Albendazole in treating various helminthic infections across different populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential, especially with prolonged therapy or high doses, every 2 weeks.
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin) at baseline and every 2 weeks during prolonged therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to chew the tablet thoroughly. Absorption is enhanced with fatty meals, which is crucial for systemic infections.
- Monitor LFTs and CBCs for patients on prolonged/high-dose therapy.
- Emphasize strict adherence to the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy; advise effective contraception during and for one month post-treatment in women of childbearing potential.
Patient Guidelines
- Always chew the tablet completely before swallowing.
- Take Durazol with a fatty meal to enhance absorption, especially for systemic infections.
- 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.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially fever, sore throat, or yellowing of the skin/eyes, to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
Since many albendazole regimens are single-dose or short-course, a missed dose may not apply. For multi-day regimens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Durazol may cause dizziness in some individuals. If you experience dizziness or visual disturbances, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are certain you can perform such activities safely.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infection.
- Wash hands thoroughly before meals and after using the toilet.
- Ensure proper sanitation and clean drinking water to avoid parasitic infections.
- Avoid raw or undercooked meat.
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