Albendazole, which is known more commonly as its brand name, Albenza, is an anthelmintic (anti-worm) medication. We have Albendazole available in 200mg and 400mg tablets (white in color) for administration.

This medication is taken to help treat infections caused by worms as well as preventing worms from hatching and multiplying in your body. There are quite a few different worms that Albendazole can help get rid of, such as giardiasis, trichuriasis, filariasis, neurocysticercosis, hydatid disease, pinworm disease, and ascariasis. Two examples of infections that Albendazole treats include neurocysticercosis (an infection of the nervous system caused by pork tapeworms) and cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum (infections caused by dog tapeworms). Albendazole works by cutting off the worms’ supply of glucose (sugar) so they can no longer absorb it causing them to eventually lose energy and die.

Always follow directions given to you by your doctor.

Take this medication with food.

If you are not able to swallow this pill whole, you may crush or chew it, flushing it down with water.

Store in room temperature away from moisture, heat and light. Keep away from children and pets. 

Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Do not breastfeed while on this medication.

Avoid those with infections.

Tell your doctor if you have any unusual bleeding or bruising, eye problems, liver disease or bone marrow suppression.

Common side effects may include:

headache, neck stiffness, increased sensitivity to light, confusion; fever; nausea, vomiting, stomach pain; abnormal liver function tests; dizziness, spinning sensation; or temporary hair loss.

Call your doctor right away if you have:

fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, feeling light-headed; a seizure; or increased pressure inside the skull--severe headaches, ringing in your ears, dizziness, nausea, vision problems, pain behind your eyes.

Does it have any medication interactions?

The most important drug interactions to be aware of are:

dexamethasone; praziquantel; and cimetidine.

What is the average dose for adults?

400mg twice a day for adults weighing 60kg+.

Adults under 60kg is usually 15mg per kg of body weight.

 

How long does it take for this medication to become active?

Since eggs can survive for a few weeks, patients need to take a second dose two weeks later to lessen the chance of them coming back, so it is safe to say it takes at least a few weeks before  they are all gone.

 

What is the most common type of worm Albendazole is used for?

Ascariasis is the most commonly seen roundworm infection and Albendazole is used to help cure it.