Q-Ben DS
Generic Name
Albendazole
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| q ben ds 400 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Albendazole is an anthelmintic used to treat various parasitic worm infestations, including ascariasis, hookworm, trichuriasis, enterobiasis, and systemic infections like hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis. The 400 mg chewable tablet offers a convenient way to administer the medication.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For intestinal nematodes (e.g., ascariasis, hookworm, whipworm, pinworm): Single 400 mg dose. For Strongyloidiasis or Taeniasis: 400 mg once daily for 3 days. For Hydatid disease or Neurocysticercosis: Regimen is more complex, typically 400 mg twice daily for varying durations (e.g., 8-28 days or cycles).
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is necessary, but monitor renal and hepatic function, especially during prolonged therapy.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment, though systemic exposure is minimal.
How to Take
The tablet should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing, or crushed and mixed with a small amount of water. For intestinal infections, it can be taken with or without food. For systemic infections (e.g., hydatid disease, neurocysticercosis), it should be taken with a fatty meal to enhance absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Albendazole selectively binds to β-tubulin in parasitic worms, inhibiting microtubule polymerization. This disrupts glucose uptake, ATP production, and eventually leads to immobilization and death of the helminth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Variable, depending on the type of infection; therapeutic effects typically observed within days for intestinal infections, longer for systemic ones.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites, with a small portion excreted in bile.
Half life
Albendazole sulfoxide (active metabolite): 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Poorly absorbed orally (<5%); absorption is increased with a fatty meal, particularly important for systemic infections.
Metabolism
Rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver to its primary active metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazole derivatives.
- Pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease theophylline clearance; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide by up to 50%.
Ritonavir, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital
May decrease plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide; monitor efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Overdose
Experience with albendazole overdose is limited. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness, and headache. In case of an overdose, gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed as necessary. Activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects observed in animal studies. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for at least one month after treatment. It is unknown if albendazole or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazole derivatives.
- Pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Praziquantel
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide.
Theophylline
Albendazole may decrease theophylline clearance; monitor theophylline levels.
Dexamethasone
Increases plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide by up to 50%.
Ritonavir, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital
May decrease plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide; monitor efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Overdose
Experience with albendazole overdose is limited. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, dizziness, and headache. In case of an overdose, gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed as necessary. Activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects observed in animal studies. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for at least one month after treatment. It is unknown if albendazole or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by health authorities
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Albendazole has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials globally, demonstrating its efficacy and safety profile for various helminthic infections in both adults and pediatric populations. These trials support its use as a WHO essential medicine.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase) before treatment and every 2 weeks during prolonged high-dose therapy.
- Complete blood count (CBC) before treatment and every 2 weeks during prolonged high-dose therapy, especially for systemic indications.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on the importance of proper hygiene to prevent re-infection, especially for intestinal helminthiases.
- For neurocysticercosis, consider concomitant corticosteroid therapy to manage inflammatory responses to dying parasites and anticonvulsants if seizures occur.
- Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) and complete blood counts (CBC) every two weeks during extended treatment periods.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Chew the tablet thoroughly or crush it before swallowing to ensure proper absorption.
- If treating a parasitic infection, follow good hygiene practices to prevent re-infection.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure eradication of parasites.
Missed Dose Advice
For single-dose treatments, take the dose as soon as you remember. For multi-day regimens, take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Driving Precautions
Q-Ben DS may cause dizziness in some individuals. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain strict personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
- Ensure food is properly cooked and water is safe for drinking.
- Practice good sanitation to minimize exposure to parasites.
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