MedDataToolAlbendazole is a medication used to treat certain infections caused by parasites, specifically neurocysticercosis from the pork tapeworm and hydatid disease from the dog tapeworm. It works by preventing the parasites from absorbing nutrients, which ultimately leads to their death. The medication is usually taken as a tablet with food, with a starting dose of 400 mg twice daily for adults weighing 60 kg or more, or 15 mg per kg of body weight for those under 60 kg, not exceeding 800 mg per day. It's important to note that albendazole should not be used by anyone who is allergic to similar medications. Additionally, if you are being treated for neurocysticercosis, you may need to take steroids or anticonvulsants to manage potential side effects.
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Uses
- Neurocysticercosis.
- Cystic hydatid disease of the liver.
- Cystic hydatid disease of the lung.
- Cystic hydatid disease of the peritoneum.
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Dosage
Patients 60 kg or greater: 400 mg twice daily with food.
Patients less than 60 kg: 15 mg/kg/day in divided doses twice daily with food.
Hydatid disease: 28-day cycle followed by 14-day break for 3 cycles.
Neurocysticercosis: 8 to 30 days.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
headachenauseavomitingabdominal paindizzinessfever
Serious
elevated liver enzymesraised intracranial pressuremeningeal signs
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Monitor blood counts and liver enzymes during treatment.
- Consider corticosteroids to prevent cerebral hypertensive episodes.
- Obtain a pregnancy test in women of reproductive potential.
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Drug interactions
- Dexamethasoneincreases albendazole sulfoxide levelsMonitor
- Praziquantelincreases albendazole sulfoxide levelsMonitor
- Cimetidineincreases albendazole sulfoxide in bile and cystic fluidMonitor
- Theophyllinemonitor levels during and after treatment.Monitor
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).