Albenza

Albenza (albendazole) is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication prescribed for the treatment of various parasitic worm infections. As a benzimidazole carbamate derivative, it works by inhibiting microtubule polymerization in parasitic cells, leading to energy depletion and immobilization, ultimately causing parasite death. This medication is particularly valued in clinical practice for its efficacy against both tissue and intestinal helminth infections, including neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease. Proper diagnosis and medical supervision are essential for determining appropriate treatment protocols.

Features

• Active ingredient: Albendazole 200 mg or 400 mg tablets
• Mechanism: Inhibits beta-tubulin polymerization in parasites
• Broad-spectrum activity against nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes
• FDA-approved for hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis
• Available by prescription only
• Standard packaging: 28-tablet bottles

Benefits

• Effectively eliminates parasitic organisms from multiple body systems
• Reduces risk of complications from tissue-invasive parasites
• Helps prevent parasite transmission to other individuals
• Minimizes recurrence when used as part of comprehensive treatment
• Supports recovery of organ function compromised by parasitic invasion
• Cost-effective compared to surgical interventions for certain parasitic conditions

Common use

Albenza is primarily indicated for the treatment of parenchymal neurocysticercosis caused by the larval form of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. 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 other helminth infections such as ascariasis, hookworm infection, enterobiasis, strongyloidiasis, and trichuriasis when standard treatments are contraindicated or ineffective. Medical professionals may also prescribe it for cutaneous larva migrans, gnathostomiasis, and microsporidiosis in immunocompromised patients.

Dosage and direction

Dosage varies significantly based on the specific infection, patient weight, and medical assessment. For neurocysticercosis, the recommended dose is 400 mg twice daily with meals for 8-30 days. For hydatid disease, the dose is weight-based: 400 mg twice daily for patients over 60 kg, or 15 mg/kg/day divided into two doses (maximum 800 mg daily) for those under 60 kg, typically administered in cycles of 28 days followed by a 14-day drug-free interval. All doses should be taken with a fatty meal to enhance absorption. Complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

Prior to initiating treatment, pregnancy must be excluded due to potential fetal harm. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for one month after discontinuation. Monitor complete blood counts at the beginning of each 28-day cycle and every 2 weeks during treatment due to potential bone marrow suppression. Liver function tests should be performed before treatment and periodically during therapy. Patients with retinal lesions should be closely monitored. Caution is advised in patients with hepatic impairment, as albendazole is metabolized in the liver.

Contraindications

Albenza is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to albendazole, other benzimidazole derivatives, or any component of the formulation. It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. The medication should not be used in patients with significantly compromised liver function without careful risk-benefit assessment. Those with bone marrow suppression or active blood dyscrasias should avoid albendazole unless no alternative exists and with appropriate monitoring.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and transient elevation of liver enzymes. Less frequently, patients may experience reversible alopecia, fever, skin rash, or itching. Serious but rare side effects include leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, granulocytopenia, pancytopenia, and agranulocytosis. Elevated intracranial pressure may occur in neurocysticercosis patients, requiring appropriate monitoring and management. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported in rare instances.

Drug interaction

Albenza induces cytochrome P450 1A and is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4, leading to several important interactions. Dexamethasone, praziquantel, and cimetidine may increase plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide, the active metabolite. Concurrent use with other bone marrow suppressants may increase the risk of hematological toxicity. Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital may decrease albendazole levels. Theophylline levels may be reduced with concomitant albendazole administration.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain regular dosing intervals to ensure consistent therapeutic levels. If multiple doses are missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.

Overdose

In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or headache. There is no specific antidote for albendazole overdose. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic, including gastric lavage if ingestion was recent. Monitor hematological parameters and liver function closely. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store Albenza tablets at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in their original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medication. The prescribing physician should determine the appropriate treatment based on individual patient factors. Actual product labeling may contain different information, and healthcare providers should reference the official prescribing information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Albenza’s efficacy with cure rates of 70-90% for many intestinal helminth infections when used appropriately. In neurocysticercosis, albendazole shows superior efficacy compared to praziquantel in achieving parasite resolution, with approximately 80% of patients showing complete radiological clearance of viable cysts within 6 months. For hydatid disease, long-term albendazole therapy shows success rates of 30-50% in achieving cyst disappearance or significant reduction. Most adverse effects are mild and transient, with serious reactions occurring in less than 1% of patients when properly monitored.