Albendazole belongs to a class of benzimidazole agents used
for nematode and trematode infections. As filariasis is caused by nematodes (roundworms), albendazole is a good
choice for such treatment. Albendazole works by blocking the glucose intake of
the parasitic worms. Thus, with less energy level these parasites tend to die. Albendazole also prevents the filarial worms
to multiply by inhibiting cell division. However, albendazole has no effect on
adult worms.
Aside from filariasis control, albendazole is also indicated
for echinococcosis, neurocysticercosis, enterobiasis, ascariasis, hookworm,
strongloidiasis and giardiasis.
Albendazole should be taken with food. For filariasis
indication, it can be given alone or in combination with DEC or ivermectin. Alone
or with the combination drugs, albendazole is taken in a single dose of 400mg
once a year for five years.
- Common trade names of albendazole
Adazole 400mg chewable tablet (Makers Lab)
Alzel 400mg chewable tablet (Zee Laboratories)
Benzol 400mg chewable tablet (Mercury Lab)
Tilminth 200mg 10 ml suspension (Tablets India)
Zentel 200mg per 10ml suspension (GlaxoSmithKline)
- Precautions and contraindications
Blood counts should be monitored to prevent bone marrow depression
in susceptible people. Albendazole should also be used in precaution with a
woman who is liable to get pregnant.
Albendazole is contraindicated in infants. It should not be
given to lactating mothers, individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug and
those who have liver problems. Albendazole is teratogenic in mice studies. Thus,
it should not be advised for pregnant women.
- Side effects
The common side effect of albendazole is stomach upsets.
Other undesirable effects include dry mouth, headache, dizziness, skin allergy
(rashes) and alopecia. Bone marrow depression is probably the most serious side
effect of albendazole.
- Drug interactions
Albendazole should not be taken with cimetidine,
dexamethasone and praziquantel. While cimetidine can diminish the effect of
albendazole, dexamethasone and praziquantel doubles the effect including the
possible side effect of albendazole.
