Albenza (albendazole) is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication prescribed for the treatment of various tissue and intestinal parasitic infections. As a benzimidazole carbamate derivative, it works by inhibiting microtubule polymerization in parasitic cells, leading to energy depletion and eventual death of the helminth. This medication represents a critical therapeutic option in both individual treatment protocols and public health initiatives targeting parasitic diseases. Proper diagnosis and medical supervision are essential for determining appropriate treatment regimens and monitoring therapeutic outcomes.

Features

• Active ingredient: Albendazole 200 mg or 400 mg tablets
• Mechanism: Selective inhibition of beta-tubulin polymerization in parasites
• Broad-spectrum activity against nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes
• High lipid solubility for enhanced tissue penetration
• Metabolized to active sulfoxide metabolite in the liver
• Available in chewable tablet formulation for pediatric patients

Benefits

• Effectively eliminates adult worms and larval forms across multiple parasite species
• Reduces cyst size and quantity in neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease
• Helps prevent serious complications associated with parasitic infections including neurological damage
• Contributes to breaking transmission cycles in endemic communities
• Single-dose efficacy for certain intestinal parasites simplifies treatment protocols
• Cost-effective option compared to surgical interventions for cyst-related diseases

Common use

Albenza is indicated for the treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by larval forms of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium, both parenchymal and extraparenchymal. It is also approved for cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum caused by the larval form of the dog tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. Off-label uses include treatment of giardiasis, cutaneous larva migrans, strongyloidiasis, ascariasis, trichuriasis, enterobiasis, and hookworm infections. The medication may be used in mass drug administration programs in endemic regions for soil-transmitted helminthiases.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies significantly based on the specific infection, patient weight, and medical assessment. 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 for intestinal parasites: single 400 mg dose for children over 2 years, or 200 mg for children 1-2 years. Tablets should be taken with a fatty meal to enhance absorption. Crushing or chewing tablets is acceptable for those with difficulty swallowing. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

Hepatic function should be monitored before and during treatment, with transaminase levels checked at start of each cycle. Complete blood counts should be performed regularly due to potential bone marrow suppression. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease or biliary obstruction. Corticosteroid therapy should be co-administered for neurocysticercosis to prevent inflammatory reactions to dying parasites. Effective contraception must be used during and for one month after treatment completion due to teratogenic risks. Retinal examinations are recommended in patients being treated for ocular cysticercosis.

Contraindications

Albenza is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to albendazole, benzimidazole derivatives, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used during pregnancy (Category D) due to demonstrated embryotoxicity and teratogenicity in animal studies. The medication is contraindicated in patients with significantly compromised liver function or active liver disease. Use is not recommended in breastfeeding women unless potential benefits outweigh risks, as albendazole is excreted in human milk.

Possible side effect

The most common adverse reactions include elevated liver enzymes (up to 16% of patients), abdominal pain (6%), nausea (4%), vomiting (4%), and headache (3%). Less frequently reported effects include dizziness, reversible alopecia, fever, and leukopenia. Serious but rare side effects include granulocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. In neurocysticercosis, intracranial hypertension may occur requiring appropriate monitoring and management. Most adverse effects are dose-related and reversible upon discontinuation.

Drug interaction

Albenza induces cytochrome P450 1A and is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4, creating several important interactions. Dexamethasone, praziquantel, and cimetidine increase albendazole sulfoxide levels. Concurrent use with other hepatotoxic drugs may increase risk of liver injury. Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital) may decrease albendazole levels. Theophylline levels may be reduced requiring monitoring. Grapefruit juice may inhibit metabolism and increase drug levels. Proton pump inhibitors may reduce absorption due to pH-dependent solubility.

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 one. Resume the regular dosing schedule. For once-daily dosing regimens, if missed for more than 24 hours, contact healthcare provider for guidance. Maintaining consistent dosing with fatty meals is important for optimal absorption and therapeutic effect.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. In severe cases, bone marrow suppression may occur. There is no specific antidote for albendazole overdose. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including gastric lavage if presented soon after ingestion. Monitor complete blood count and liver function tests. Hemodialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding. Contact poison control center for latest management recommendations.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in a dry place protected from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Do not remove desiccant from bottle. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Properly discard any unused medication after treatment completion. Do not flush medications down toilet or pour into drain unless instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Albenza is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Proper diagnosis of parasitic infection through laboratory testing is essential before initiation of therapy. Individual response to treatment may vary based on parasite burden, immune status, and concomitant conditions. Always follow the specific dosage instructions provided by your prescribing physician.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate efficacy rates of 75-95% for various parasitic infections depending on parasite species and disease burden. In neurocysticercosis, complete cyst resolution occurs in approximately 50% of parenchymal cases after one course, with additional courses increasing success rates. For hydatid disease, studies show cyst disappearance or significant reduction in 70-80% of cases after multiple treatment cycles. Patient-reported outcomes indicate high satisfaction with symptom resolution, though some report temporary worsening of symptoms during the first week of treatment due to inflammatory response to dying parasites. Adherence to full treatment course and follow-up monitoring are critical for optimal outcomes.