Albendazole, also known as albendazolum, is a medication used for the treatment of a variety of parasitic worm infestations. It is useful for giardiasis, trichuriasis, filariasis, neurocysticercosis, hydatid disease, pinworm disease, and ascariasis, among others. It is taken by mouth.
Molecular Structure |
Class of Drug |
Anthelmintic.
Mechanism of Action |
Inhibits uptake of glucose and other nutrients by parasitic helminths.
Indications / Dosage / Route |
Routes of Administration: Oral only.
Condition: Hydatid disease
Dose: Adults > 60 kg: 400 mg b.i.d. with meals, 28-hour cycle followed by 14-day drug-free interval for total of 3 cycles.
Adults <60 kg: 15 mg/kg/d in divided doses b.i.d. with meals. Maximum total daily dose: 800 mg.
Condition: Neurocysticercosis
Dose: Adults > 60 kg: 400 mg b.i.d. with meals, 8-30 days.
Adults < 60 kg: 50 mg/kg/d in divided doses b.i.d. with meals. Maximum total daily dose: 800 mg.
Food and Drug Interactions |
Food: Take with food.
Pregnancy: Category C.
Lactation: Probably present in breast milk. Best to avoid.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to mabendazole.
Adverse Reactions |
> Common: Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Nausea, Vomiting.
> Serious: bone marrow suppression, hepatitis, hypersensitivity reactions.
Advice to Patient |
> Avoid driving and other activities requiring mental alertness or that are potentially dangerous until response to drug is known.
> Patient and family members should shower frequently if possible
> Keep hands away from mouth.
> Keep fingernails short and clean.
> Do not shake bedding as this could result in airborne spread of ova.
> Counsel patient’s family members to check for worm infesta-tion and treat accordingly.
> Disinfect toilet daily; wash all fruits and vegetables; cook all meats and vegetables thoroughly.
> Wear gloves when preparing food.
Further Useful Info |
> Patient and family members should be taught how to avoid reinfestation with these worms. The following measures should be undertaken to avoid reinfection: (1) perianal area should be washed thoroughly (2) hands and fingernails should be cleaned before meals and after defecation (3) undergarments and bedclothes should be changed daily.
> For those treated for hookworm and whipworm: it may be necessary to take an iron supplement every day and for 6 months following treatment if anemia is present.
