Albendazole

Albendazole is a congener of mebendazole. Has a broad-spectrum activity and excellent tolerability. It has the advantage of single-dose administration in many infestations.

Indication.

Treatment of

• ascariasis, hookworm, enterobiasis and strongyloidiasis.
• Management of tapeworms, including H. nana.

Mechanism of action.

• Inhibition of the tubulin polymerization results in the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules.

Clinical uses.

• For intestinal worms, the drug should be given on an empty stomach.
• For cysticercosis, hydatid and cutaneous larva migrans, the drug should be given with a fatty meal.
• Ascaris, hookworm, Enterobius and Trichuris: a single dose of 400 mg for adults and children above two years and 200 mg for 1–2 years children.
• Tapeworms and strongyloidiasis: 400 mg daily for three consecutive days.
• Trichinosis: Three-day treatment expels the adult worm from the intestine but has limited effect on larvae that have migrated to the muscles.
• Neurocysticercosis: Usually 8–15 days course of 400 mg twice a day (15 mg/kg/day)
• Cutaneous larva migrants: 400 mg daily for three days kills the larvae and relieves symptoms.
• Hydatid disease: 400 mg twice a day for four weeks, repeat after two weeks, up to 3 courses.

Side effects

• GI discomfort, dry mouth and nausea
• Headache, dizziness and fever
• Pruritis, alopecia, jaundice and neutropenia on prolonged use.

Dosage.

• ZENTEL, ALMINTH, ALBEZOLE, COMBANTRIN-A 400 mg tablets, 200 mg/5 ml suspension.

Contraindication.

• Pregnancy due to embryotoxicity.
• Should be given with caution to patients with hepatic or renal disease