Albenza: Targeted Treatment for Parasitic Infections
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Synonyms | |||
Albenza (albendazole) is an anthelmintic medication specifically formulated to combat a range of parasitic worm infections. As a broad-spectrum agent, it works by inhibiting microtubule synthesis in parasitic cells, leading to energy depletion and eventual death of the helminth. This medication requires precise diagnosis and professional supervision to ensure appropriate therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential adverse effects. Proper dosing regimens are critical for efficacy, particularly given the drug’s variable absorption characteristics.
Features
- Active ingredient: Albendazole 200 mg or 400 mg tablets
- Mechanism: Selective degeneration of cytoplasmic microtubules in parasitic cells
- Formulation: Oral tablet designed for systemic distribution
- Bioavailability: Enhanced approximately 5-fold when administered with fatty meals
- Metabolism: Rapidly converted to active sulfoxide metabolite in the liver
- Half-life: 8-12 hours (primary metabolite)
- Excretion: Primarily biliary, with minimal renal clearance
Benefits
- Effectively eliminates susceptible parasitic organisms through vermicidal action
- Provides comprehensive coverage against multiple helminth species with appropriate dosing
- Prevents larval migration and tissue invasion in systemic parasitic infections
- Reduces risk of complications associated with chronic parasitic infestations
- Offers flexible dosing adaptable to patient-specific parasitic burden
- Demonstrated efficacy in both intestinal and tissue phases of parasitic diseases
Common use
Albenza is indicated for the treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by larval forms of Taenia solium and cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum caused by larval forms of Echinococcus granulosus. It is also used off-label for other parasitic infections including giardiasis, ascariasis, hookworm, pinworm, and strongyloidiasis when standard treatments are contraindicated or ineffective. The medication demonstrates particular utility in cases where surgical intervention for parasitic cysts is not feasible or carries excessive risk.
Dosage and direction
Dosage must be individualized based on patient weight, specific infection, and parasitic burden. For neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days. For hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily with meals for 28-day cycles followed by 14-day drug-free intervals, typically repeating for 3 cycles. Pediatric dosing above 6 years follows similar weight-based protocols (15 mg/kg/day, maximum 800 mg daily). Tablets should be swallowed whole with water during high-fat meals to optimize absorption. Concomitant corticosteroid therapy is recommended for neurocysticercosis to prevent inflammatory reactions to dying parasites.
Precautions
Monitor complete blood counts before and during treatment due to potential bone marrow suppression. Hepatic enzymes should be assessed at baseline and periodically during therapy. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment requiring dosage adjustment. Effective contraception must be maintained during and for one month after treatment completion due to teratogenic risks. Retinal examinations recommended before and during prolonged therapy. Not recommended for children under 6 years except in severe cases where benefits outweigh risks.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to albendazole, benzimidazole derivatives, or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy (Category C) due to demonstrated embryotoxicity and teratogenicity in animal studies. Breastfeeding should be discontinued during therapy. Patients with significant hepatic dysfunction without appropriate monitoring capabilities. Those with known bone marrow suppression conditions or active blood dyscrasias.
Possible side effect
Common: Headache (≈11%), nausea (≈6%), vomiting (≈4%), abdominal pain (≈3%), dizziness (≈2%), reversible alopecia (≈2%). Less common: Leukopenia (≈1%), elevated hepatic enzymes (≈16% in long-term use), thrombocytopenia (rare). Serious but rare: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, agranulocytosis, pancytopenia, hepatitis, acute renal failure. Most adverse effects are dose-related and reversible upon discontinuation.
Drug interaction
Cimetidine, dexamethasone, and praziquantel increase albendazole sulfoxide levels. Carbamazepine, phenytoin, and rifampin decrease albendazole levels through CYP450 induction. May potentiate effects of other bone marrow suppressants. Antacids and proton pump inhibitors may reduce absorption. Monitor warfarin therapy closely due to potential interaction. Grapefruit juice may inhibit metabolism and increase toxicity risk.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Maintain regular dosing schedule to ensure consistent therapeutic levels. Contact healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed for guidance on regimen adjustment.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and altered mental status. In massive overdose, bone marrow suppression and hepatotoxicity may occur. There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive with gastric lavage if presented early. Monitor complete blood count and hepatic function for several weeks post-overdose. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in original container. Protect from moisture and light. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use if tablets show signs of deterioration or discoloration. Properly dispose of unused medication through take-back programs rather than flushing or household trash.
Disclaimer
This information does not replace professional medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment of parasitic infections should be conducted by qualified healthcare providers. Dosage and administration must be determined based on individual patient factors and specific parasitic diagnosis. Always follow the prescribed regimen and report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate cure rates of 70-90% for giardiasis, 85-95% for ascariasis, and significant reduction in cyst size in 70-80% of hydatid disease cases. Neurocysticercosis trials show complete resolution of lesions in approximately 50% of patients with substantial improvement in most others. The medication is generally well-tolerated with most adverse effects being transient and mild. Medical professionals appreciate its broad-spectrum activity but emphasize the necessity of proper diagnostic confirmation before initiation.