Albenza

(Albendazole)

The active ingredient in Albenza is albendazole. Albendazole belongs to the benzimidazole class of anthelmintic drugs. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the formation of microtubules in parasite cells by binding to beta-tubulin. This disrupts essential cellular processes, including glucose uptake, leading to energy depletion and death of the parasite. Albendazole is effective against larval and adult forms of certain tapeworms and roundworms.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Albenza. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Albenza:

Albenza is taken by mouth as a tablet.

It should be taken with food, especially a fatty meal, to improve absorption.

Tablets may be chewed, swallowed, or crushed and mixed with food.

Treatment courses may last from several days to several weeks, with rest periods between cycles for certain infections.

Some mild or common side effects of Albenza include:

Abdominal pain.

Nausea or vomiting.

Headache.

Dizziness.

Temporary hair loss.

Fever.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Albenza. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Severe allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.

Bone marrow suppression, including low white blood cell or platelet counts.

Liver problems, including elevated liver enzymes, hepatitis, or jaundice.

Signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as severe headache, vision changes, or seizures.

Severe skin reactions.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Albenza. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Albenza, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

Liver disease or abnormal liver function.

Bone marrow disorders or low blood cell counts.

A history of seizures or brain lesions.

Neurocysticercosis may require corticosteroids or anticonvulsants to reduce inflammation.

Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed.

Blood counts and liver function tests should be monitored before and during treatment.

Albenza is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazole compounds.

Albenza begins working after the first dose, but symptom improvement may take days or weeks, depending on the type and severity of the infection. Imaging and laboratory tests are often used to monitor treatment response, especially in neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease.

When Albenza is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Dexamethasone, cimetidine, and praziquantel may increase albendazole blood levels, potentially increasing side effects.

Theophylline levels may be affected when taken with Albenza and may require monitoring.

It is available in tablets containing 200mg of albendazole.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Albenza is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop taking Albenza early unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Stopping treatment too soon may result in incomplete treatment of the infection. Your healthcare provider will determine when therapy should end.

Albenza can cause harm to an unborn baby. A pregnancy test is recommended before starting treatment, and effective birth control should be used during therapy and for 3 days after your last dose. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Albendazole may pass into breast milk in small amounts. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed so they can help weigh the benefits and risks.