Adults

For common intestinal helminthiasis (e.g., ascariasis, hookworm, pinworm, whipworm): 400 mg as a single dose. For giardiasis: 400 mg once daily for 5 days. (Note: Epazel 175 mg suspension would typically be prescribed as per physician's advice, possibly in multiple units or for specific pediatric regimens if 175 mg is the unit dose).

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment necessary, but monitor renal/hepatic function.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment is usually required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.

Hepatic_impairment

Use with caution and monitor liver function due to extensive hepatic metabolism. Dose reduction may be considered.

Onset

Variable, depending on the type of infection, typically within days.

Excretion

Primarily excreted in bile as metabolites; minimal renal excretion.

Half life

Albendazole sulfoxide: approximately 8-12 hours.

Absorption

Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption is significantly enhanced when taken with a fatty meal.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver to the active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, and then to albendazole sulfone.

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.