Albendazole
| Brand Name | N/A | |
| Generic Name | Albendazole | |
| Manufactured by | N/A | |
| Formulation or Composition | N/A | |
| Pharmacology | Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic agent with vermicidal, ovicidal, and larvicidal properties. It is believed to work by obstructing glucose uptake in vulnerable helminths, leading to a depletion of energy levels that are insufficient for their survival. This results in the immobilization of the parasite. This process may occur due to the binding and subsequent inhibition of parasite tubulin polymerization by albendazole and its metabolites, although it also binds to human tubulin. Albendazole is largely metabolized, likely in the liver. It is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but quickly undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. The main metabolite, albendazole sulphoxide, has anthelmintic activity and a plasma half-life of approximately 8.5 hours. It is excreted in the urine along with other metabolites. | |
| Indications | Albendazole is prescribed for treating single and mixed infestations of the following parasites:
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| Dose and Administration | Adults and children over the age of 2:
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| Contraindications | Neonates: Albendazole is typically not administered to neonates. Children: For children weighing less than 10 kg, a dose reduction from 400 mg to 200 mg may be necessary. However, a general dose reduction for all children is not warranted. Pregnant Women: Albendazole should not be prescribed during pregnancy or to women suspected of being pregnant. There is no available data on its transfer across the placenta. Concurrent Disease: There is no evidence to support modifying the dosage of albendazole for patients with renal, hepatic, or cardiac failure. | |
| Warnings & Precautions | Before starting treatment, blood counts and liver function tests should be conducted, and repeated twice during each treatment cycle. Ensure that the patient is not pregnant before beginning treatment and avoid breastfeeding during this period. Albendazole should be used for treating Echinococcosis only under constant medical supervision, with regular monitoring of serum transaminase levels, as well as leukocyte and platelet counts. | |
| Side Effects | Gastrointestinal issues, headaches, dizziness, altered liver enzyme levels, and rarely reversible hair loss have been noted. Additionally, reports include rash, fever, blood disorders such as low white blood cell count and pancytopenia, allergic reactions if a cyst leaks, as well as seizures and meningitis-like symptoms in cases of cerebral involvement. | |
| Use in Pregnancy & Lactation | Albendazole is classified as Category C by the US FDA for use during pregnancy. This means it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible risks to the fetus. | |
| Storage Condition | Store in a cool, dry area, protected from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children. | |
| Therapeutic Class | Anthelmintic | |
| Frequently Asked Questions about A-Cal DX Tablet | N/A |
Follow the doctor’s advice for medication consumption
