Albendazole Tablets 400mg

Product Description

Albendazole Tablets 400mg is an anthelmintic medication used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infections. It works by preventing worms from absorbing sugar, which leads to their eventual death.

Active Ingredient:

• Albendazole: Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug that is effective against a wide range of worms and parasites. It works by inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin, a protein necessary for the worm's energy production, which leads to their death.

Common Uses:

Albendazole 400mg tablets are typically used to treat:

1. Intestinal Worm Infections: These include infections caused by roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and pinworms.
   • Ascariasis (roundworm)
   • Trichuriasis (whipworm)
   • Hookworm infections: Caused by hookworms, often in tropical and subtropical regions.
   • Enterobiasis (pinworm infection)
   • Strongyloidiasis (infection with Strongyloides)
2. Extra-intestinal Infections:
   • Cysticercosis: An infection caused by the larvae of pork tapeworm (Taenia solium).
   • Hydatid disease: Caused by Echinococcus tapeworms, resulting in cysts in the liver or lungs.
   • Neurocysticercosis: A serious condition where tapeworm larvae infect the brain.

Dosage and Administration:

• Concentration: Each tablet contains 400 mg of Albendazole.

• Typical Dosage:

  • For adults: The standard dose for treating most infections is typically 1 tablet (400 mg), taken as a single dose. For some infections (like cysticercosis or hydatid disease), a doctor might recommend higher doses or longer treatment periods, usually 2-3 weeks.
  • For children: The dose depends on the child's age and weight. The pediatric dose typically ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg per day, but the treatment duration will vary based on the type of infection.

• How to take:

  • Albendazole is usually taken with food to help increase its absorption.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken once daily or in divided doses, depending on your doctor's instructions.

• For multiple doses: If your doctor prescribes multiple doses, follow their guidance on when to take the subsequent doses (typically for 3-5 days for intestinal worms).

Side Effects:

• Common side effects:
  • Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • Headache.
  • Dizziness or feeling lightheaded.
  • Hair loss (which is usually temporary).
• Serious side effects (rare):
  • Liver problems: Symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent stomach pain.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
  • Bone marrow suppression: This can lead to fever, sore throat, or unexplained bruising or bleeding.
  • Severe abdominal pain, which may indicate liver issues or infection.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Allergies: Do not take Albendazole if you are allergic to albendazole or any of the other ingredients in the tablet.
• Pregnancy: Albendazole is classified as Category C during pregnancy, which means it should only be used if absolutely necessary and prescribed by a doctor. It is recommended to avoid its use during the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: Albendazole is excreted in breast milk, so it's best to consult a doctor before using it while breastfeeding.
• Liver or kidney disease: Albendazole is metabolized in the liver, and caution is needed if you have liver disease or kidney problems. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose.
• Blood disorders: Albendazole may cause bone marrow suppression, so if you have a history of blood disorders, discuss this with your doctor before use.

Drug Interactions:

Albendazole may interact with other medications, including:

• Cimetidine (an antacid): May increase albendazole's concentration in the blood.
• Dexamethasone: May reduce albendazole's effectiveness.
• Phenytoin or Carbamazepine (anticonvulsants): These may decrease the effectiveness of albendazole.

Always inform your doctor about any other medications you're taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

When to Consult a Doctor:

• If you experience unusual side effects such as severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or unexplained bleeding.
• If you notice severe allergic reactions (such as swelling or difficulty breathing).
• If you develop significant liver problems during treatment, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, or dark urine.

Conclusion:

Albendazole 400mg is an effective medication for treating a variety of parasitic worm infections, ranging from intestinal worms to more serious infections like cysticercosis and hydatid disease. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and treatment regimen, especially when dealing with more complex infections, as some conditions require longer durations of therapy. If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, consult a healthcare provider immediately.