ALBENDA 200mg Tablets

What is ALBENDA 200mg

ALBENDA 200mg Tablets contain the active ingredient Albendazole, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic (anti-worm medication). It is primarily used to treat parasitic worm infestations in the gastrointestinal tract and other organs. ALBENDA is effective against a wide range of helminths, including:

• Roundworms (e.g., Ascaris lumbricoides)
• Hookworms (e.g., Ancylostoma duodenale)
• Whipworms (e.g., Trichuris trichiura)
• Tapeworms (e.g., Taenia species)
• Pinworms (e.g., Enterobius vermicularis)

This medication is especially useful in treating infections such as:

• Neurocysticercosis (caused by Taenia solium larvae)
• Hydatid disease (echinococcosis)
• Giardiasis (off-label use in some regions)

ALBENDA 200mg is available as a 2-tablet blister pack, ideal for short-course therapies and single-dose regimens. It is commonly used in both adults and children above 2 years of age. The drug is listed on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines due to its broad utility and effectiveness.

How to use ALBENDA 200mg

Using ALBENDA 200mg correctly ensures maximum efficacy and reduces the risk of resistance or side effects. The medication should be taken under medical supervision, especially for prolonged treatment or for patients with systemic parasitic infections.

• Route of Administration: Oral, swallow the tablet whole with water.
• Timing: It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with a fatty meal enhances absorption.
• Dosage Frequency: Single dose or short course depending on the condition.
• For Children: Crushed or chewed under supervision (as directed by a physician).

Instructions for Common Conditions:

• For intestinal worms: A single 200mg dose may be sufficient.
• For neurocysticercosis or hydatid disease: Prolonged dosing (15–30 days) may be required.
• Repeat Treatment: In some infections, a second dose is recommended after 2 weeks to eliminate reinfection.

Important Tips:

• Do not exceed the prescribed dosage.
• Continue the full course even if symptoms improve early.
• Consult your doctor before using this medicine in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Mode of Action ALBENDA 200mg

Albendazole, the active ingredient in ALBENDA 200mg, works by disrupting the vital metabolic processes of parasitic worms. Its pharmacological action makes it effective against both adult worms and larval stages.

• Microtubule Inhibition: Albendazole selectively binds to β-tubulin in the parasite’s cells, inhibiting the polymerization of tubulin into microtubules. This halts important cellular functions, especially nutrient absorption.
• Glucose Uptake Disruption: The parasites lose their ability to absorb glucose, leading to depletion of glycogen stores and, eventually, energy failure.
• Larval and Ova Killing: In some parasites like Taenia solium, Albendazole also disrupts larval forms (cysticerci), reducing their survival in tissues like the brain and liver.
• Broad-spectrum Action: Effective against both nematodes and cestodes due to the universal presence of tubulin-based cellular mechanisms in helminths.

Pharmacokinetics Highlights:

• Absorption: Poor when taken on an empty stomach, improved significantly with fatty food.
• Metabolism: Rapid hepatic metabolism to active metabolite albendazole sulfoxide.
• Excretion: Primarily via bile and urine.

This dual impact—on both worm metabolism and reproductive capability—makes ALBENDA 200mg highly effective, especially in settings where reinfection risk is high.

ALBENDA 200mg Interactions ALBENDA 200mg

Drug interactions with ALBENDA 200mg can alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products they are using.

• Anticonvulsants (e.g., Phenytoin, Carbamazepine): May reduce plasma concentrations of Albendazole by inducing liver enzymes (CYP450).
• Cimetidine: Can increase Albendazole plasma levels by inhibiting liver enzymes, potentially increasing side effects.
• Dexamethasone: May increase Albendazole sulfoxide concentration and therapeutic effect; often co-administered in neurocysticercosis to reduce inflammation.
• Praziquantel: Some studies suggest increased albendazole absorption; consult a doctor before concurrent use.

Herbal or OTC Interactions:

• St. John's Wort: May reduce drug effectiveness due to liver enzyme induction.
• Grapefruit Juice: May alter metabolism; best avoided during treatment.

Special Populations:

• Use with caution in patients with liver impairment, as metabolism may be affected.
• Monitor liver enzymes during prolonged therapy (e.g., in hydatid disease).

Dosage of ALBENDA 200mg

Dosage depends on the type of parasitic infection, age, weight, and overall health status. Below are general guidelines, but always follow your doctor’s prescription.

• For Common Intestinal Helminths:
• Adults and children over 2 years: 200mg as a single dose.
• Pinworm Infection (Enterobiasis):
• Single 200mg dose; may repeat in 2 weeks to prevent reinfection.
• Neurocysticercosis:
• 15 mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 8–30 days.
• Hydatid Disease:
• 10–15 mg/kg/day for 28-day cycles, repeated after 14-day breaks for 3 cycles.

Children Under 2 Years:

• Often not recommended without a doctor’s advice; safety profile is limited.

Elderly or Liver Impairment:

• Dose adjustment may be required; monitor liver function during prolonged use.

Possible side effects of ALBENDA 200mg

ALBENDA 200mg is generally well-tolerated, especially during short courses. However, side effects may occur, especially with high-dose or prolonged treatment.

• Common Side Effects:
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Less Common Side Effects:
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Temporary hair loss (with long-term use)
• Serious Side Effects (rare):
• Liver function abnormalities (elevated AST, ALT)
• Agranulocytosis or leukopenia
• Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Seizures or worsening neurological symptoms in neurocysticercosis

What to Do:

• Report persistent or severe symptoms to a healthcare provider.
• Routine blood tests may be advised during long-term use.

ALBENDA 200mg Contraindications ALBENDA 200mg

ALBENDA 200mg should not be used in certain conditions due to the risk of adverse effects or lack of safety data.

• Hypersensitivity: Do not use if allergic to Albendazole or related benzimidazole compounds.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated especially in the first trimester. Albendazole may be teratogenic in animal studies.
• Liver Disease: Avoid or use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor liver function closely.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Not advised in patients with history of blood disorders (e.g., neutropenia or pancytopenia).

Caution In:

• Breastfeeding women (use only if benefits outweigh risks)
• Children under 2 years (limited safety data)

Storage of ALBENDA 200mg

Proper storage ensures ALBENDA 200mg retains its effectiveness and safety over time. Follow these guidelines:

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F); avoid excessive heat.
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place away from moisture. Avoid storing in the bathroom.
• Light: Protect from direct sunlight. Keep in the original blister packaging until use.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store in a locked cabinet or safe location.

Disposal:

• Do not flush down the toilet or pour into drains.
• Return unused or expired medication to a pharmacy or follow local disposal regulations.

Shelf Life: Check the expiry date on the blister pack. Do not use beyond the stated date.