Albendazole is a benzimidazole anthelmintic agent renowned for its potent, broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of parasitic worm infections. It functions by inhibiting microtubule polymerization in susceptible helminths, leading to impaired glucose uptake and eventual parasite death. This medication is a cornerstone in both clinical treatment and public health initiatives targeting parasitic diseases, offering high efficacy and a well-established safety profile when used appropriately under medical supervision. Its versatility makes it indispensable in managing conditions from intestinal nematode infections to systemic larval migrations.

Features

• Active ingredient: Albendazole
• Drug class: Benzimidazole anthelmintic
• Available forms: Oral tablets (200 mg, 400 mg), chewable tablets, oral suspension
• Mechanism of action: Selective inhibition of beta-tubulin polymerization in parasites
• Broad-spectrum activity against nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes
• High bioavailability when administered with a fatty meal
• Metabolized in the liver to active sulfoxide metabolite

Benefits

• Effectively eliminates adult and larval stages of numerous parasitic species
• Reduces morbidity associated with chronic parasitic infections
• Helps prevent complications from tissue-invasive parasites (e.g., neurocysticercosis, hydatid disease)
• Contributes to improved nutritional status in endemic populations
• Supports public health parasite control programs
• Generally well-tolerated with appropriate monitoring

Common use

Albendazole is indicated for the treatment of various parasitic infections including intestinal nematodiasis (ascariasis, trichuriasis, hookworm infections, enterobiasis), strongyloidiasis, neurocysticercosis caused by Taenia solium larvae, hydatid disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus, and cutaneous larva migrans. It is also used in mass drug administration programs for soil-transmitted helminth control in endemic areas and may be prescribed off-label for other parasitic conditions under specialist supervision.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies significantly based on the specific infection, patient weight, and clinical context. For intestinal nematodes: typically 400 mg single dose for adults and children over 2 years (200 mg for children 1-2 years). For neurocysticercosis: 15 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (max 800 mg/day) for 8-30 days. For hydatid disease: 15 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (max 800 mg/day) for 28-day cycles separated by 14-day drug-free intervals. Always take with a fatty meal to enhance absorption. Tablets may be crushed and mixed with food for children or those unable to swallow whole. Complete the full prescribed course unless directed otherwise by a physician.

Precautions

Monitor complete blood counts before and during prolonged therapy due to potential bone marrow suppression. Hepatic enzymes should be monitored, especially with extended courses. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. May cause dizziness - caution when operating machinery. Not recommended during pregnancy (category C) unless potential benefit justifies potential risk. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for one month after treatment. Consider suspending breastfeeding during treatment. In neurocysticercosis, concomitant corticosteroid therapy is often required to prevent inflammatory reactions to dying parasites.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to albendazole, other benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation. Contraindicated in patients with known bone marrow suppression. Not recommended in pregnancy except for life-threatening parasitic infections where no alternative exists. Avoid use in patients with significant hepatic dysfunction without careful monitoring. Not intended for prophylactic use without specific medical indication.

Possible side effect

Common: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness. Less common: reversible alopecia, fever, skin rash, itching. Rare but serious: leukopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, hepatitis, acute liver failure, meningeal signs in neurocysticercosis treatment. Ocular changes including retinal damage reported with high-dose, prolonged therapy. Most side effects are mild and transient, resolving after treatment completion.

Drug interaction

Albendazole metabolism is enhanced by drugs inducing cytochrome P450 1A (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin), potentially reducing efficacy. Cimetidine and praziquantel may increase albendazole plasma levels. May interact with other bone marrow suppressants (e.g., chemotherapy agents). Use caution with other hepatotoxic drugs. Dexamethasone may increase albendazole sulfoxide levels. Theophylline levels may be decreased during concomitant use.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is almost 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 resuming treatment.

Overdose

Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, or headache. In massive overdose, bone marrow suppression or hepatotoxicity may occur. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if presented soon after ingestion. Monitor blood counts and liver function in significant overdose. Contact poison control center for management guidance.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Oral suspension should not be frozen. Discard any unused medication properly according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Dosage and treatment duration must be determined by a physician based on individual patient factors. The prescriber should be familiar with current treatment guidelines for parasitic infections.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate albendazole’s high efficacy rates: 72-98% cure rates for soil-transmitted helminths, 80-90% reduction in cyst size in hydatid disease, and significant clinical improvement in 70-85% of neurocysticercosis cases. Systematic reviews confirm its position as first-line therapy for many parasitic infections. Healthcare providers report good patient tolerance when used appropriately. Public health organizations worldwide incorporate albendazole in mass drug administration programs with documented success in reducing parasite burden in endemic communities.