Albendazole - Description, Indication, Dosage and administration, side effects and precations

3 Views • 08/17/25

Side Effects

Subscribers

Albendazole - Description, Indication, Dosage and administration, side effects and precations

Albendazole.
Description: Albendazole, a potent anthelmintic of the benzimidazole carbamate class. It serves as a broad-spectrum treatment for various intestinal worm infestations and hydatid disease.

Indications:
Ascariasis, Trichuriasis, Strongyloidiasis, Hookworm infestations, Enterobiasis (pinworm, threadworm), Capillariasis, Cysticercosis, Cutaneous larva migrans, Hydatid disease, Surgery as an adjunct therapy (pre- or post-operatively)
Dosage and Administration:
• For ascariasis, hookworm infestations, trichuriasis, and cutaneous larva migrans in adults and children aged 2 years or older: a single dose of 400 mg.
• In strongyloidiasis: 400 mg daily for 3 consecutive days, with possible repetition after 3 weeks if needed.
• In enterobiasis: A single dose of 100 mg for children aged 2 years or more, repeated after 7 days. Adults receive a 400 mg dose, also repeated after 7 days.
• In hydatid disease: Adults are prescribed 400 mg twice daily, typically in 28-day cycles with a 2-week interval between cycles. The number of cycles may range from 1 to 12.

Side Effects:
• Common side effects during treatment include gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and dizziness.
• Mild symptoms usually resolve without treatment.
• Rare side effects include rash, fever, and alopecia.
•
Contraindications:
• Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Precautions:
• Reports of elevated hepatic enzyme levels and reversible reduction in total white cell count.
• More common during the treatment of E. multilocularis.

Drug Interactions:
• Albendazole induces liver enzymes of the cytochrome P-450 system, potentially interacting with:
• Theophylline
• Anticonvulsants
• Anticoagulants
• Oral contraceptives
• Oral hypoglycemics
• Caution is advised when introducing Albendazole in patients receiving these compounds.

Overdosage:
• No reported cases of overdosage.
• Gastric lavage within the first two to three hours after ingestion is recommended.
• No specific antidote; treatment involves symptomatic care and general support as needed.

Up next

Albendazole - Description, Indication, Dosage and administration, side effects and precations

Up next

Please note that if you are under 18, you won't be able to access this site.

Up next

Albendazole - Description, Indication, Dosage and administration, side effects and precations

Up next

Language