Albenza: Effective Treatment for Parasitic Worm Infections
Albenza
| Product dosage: 400mg | |||
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Synonyms | |||
Albenza (albendazole) is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication prescribed for the treatment of various parasitic worm infections. As a benzimidazole carbamate derivative, it works by inhibiting tubulin polymerization, leading to impaired glucose uptake and energy depletion in helminths, ultimately causing parasite death. This medication is particularly valued in clinical practice for its efficacy against both tissue and intestinal helminth infections, making it a cornerstone in antiparasitic therapy. Proper diagnosis and medical supervision are essential before initiation of treatment to ensure appropriate dosing and monitoring.
Features
- Active ingredient: Albendazole 400 mg
- Pharmaceutical form: Oral tablets
- Mechanism: Selective degeneration of cytoplasmic microtubules in parasitic cells
- Broad-spectrum activity against nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes
- High bioavailability when administered with fatty meals
- Metabolized in liver to active sulfoxide metabolite
Benefits
- Effectively eliminates adult worms and larval forms across multiple parasite species
- Reduces risk of complications associated with chronic parasitic infections
- Helps restore normal nutrient absorption in intestinal parasitic infections
- Decreases cyst size and number in hydatid disease
- Minimizes tissue damage in neurocysticercosis
- Prevents parasite recurrence when administered as directed
Common use
Albenza is primarily indicated for the treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by larval forms of pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) and cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum caused by larval forms of dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus). It is also used off-label for other parasitic infections including giardiasis, ascariasis, hookworm infections, trichuriasis, enterobiasis, and strongyloidiasis. The medication demonstrates particular effectiveness against tissue-migrating larval forms, making it valuable in cases where parasites have disseminated beyond the gastrointestinal tract.
Dosage and direction
Dosage varies significantly based on the specific parasitic infection, patient weight, and clinical response. For neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days. For hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 28-day cycles followed by 14-day drug-free intervals, typically repeating for 3 cycles. Pediatric dosing above 2 years is based on weight: 15 mg/kg/day divided into two doses (maximum 800 mg daily). Tablets should be swallowed whole with water during high-fat meals to enhance absorption. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve earlier.
Precautions
Monitor complete blood counts before treatment and every 2 weeks during therapy due to potential bone marrow suppression. Liver function tests should be performed at baseline and periodically during treatment. Use effective contraception during and for one month after treatment completion due to teratogenic risks. Caution advised in patients with hepatic impairment, as dosage adjustment may be necessary. Retinal examinations recommended before and during treatment for patients with retinal involvement. May cause dizziness—caution when operating machinery or driving.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to albendazole, benzimidazole derivatives, or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy (category C) due to embryo-fetal toxicity demonstrated in animal studies. Breastfeeding is not recommended as albendazole is excreted in human milk. Children under 2 years due to limited safety data. Patients with known bone marrow suppression or active liver disease require careful risk-benefit assessment before initiation.
Possible side effect
Common side effects (≥1%): abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, reversible alopecia, elevated liver enzymes. Less frequent side effects: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia (especially with prolonged use), hypersensitivity reactions including rash and pruritus. Rare but serious: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute liver failure, meningeal signs in neurocysticercosis patients due to inflammatory response to dying parasites. Most side effects are dose-dependent and reversible upon discontinuation.
Drug interaction
Cimetidine, dexamethasone, and praziquantel may increase albendazole sulfoxide levels. Antiepileptic drugs (carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital) may decrease albendazole levels. Theophylline levels may be increased when co-administered with albendazole. May potentiate effects of other bone marrow suppressants. Monitor patients on warfarin therapy as albendazole may affect coagulation parameters. Concomitant use with other hepatotoxic drugs requires enhanced monitoring.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure consistent therapeutic levels. If multiple doses are missed, consult healthcare provider for guidance on resumption of therapy. Consistent dosing is particularly important for tissue-dwelling parasites where sustained drug levels are necessary for efficacy.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, dizziness, headache, and transient liver function abnormalities. In cases of massive overdose, bone marrow suppression may occur. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if presented soon after ingestion. Monitor complete blood count and liver function tests closely. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in original container with tight closure. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Do not transfer tablets to other containers as this may affect stability. Proper disposal of unused medication is essential to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Albenza is a prescription medication that should only be used under direct medical supervision. Proper diagnosis of parasitic infection through laboratory confirmation is essential before treatment initiation. Healthcare providers should consider individual patient factors including comorbidities, concomitant medications, and potential risks before prescribing. Always follow the specific dosing instructions provided by your treating physician.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate cure rates of 72-97% for intestinal nematode infections after single-dose treatment. In neurocysticercosis, complete resolution of lesions observed in 50-70% of patients after one treatment course, with additional courses improving response rates. For hydatid disease, studies show 30-50% reduction in cyst size and number with significant clinical improvement. Most clinical trials report good tolerability with side effects typically mild and self-limiting. Long-term follow-up studies indicate low recurrence rates when treatment protocols are properly followed. Patient-reported outcomes generally reflect significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life post-treatment.