Albendazole – Brands, Strengths and Prices

Key facts about albendazole

• Albendazole is a medication belonging to a group of drugs called anthelmintics.
• It is approved for neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease, and is also used for roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, threadworm, and some tapeworm infections.
• It is a prescription-only medication in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia.
• Albendazole is usually taken orally (by mouth) with food.
• This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby; pregnant women should not use this medicine.

At Prashi Pharma, the albendazole brands we stock are listed below.

What is albendazole?

Albendazole is an anti-parasitic agent that is used for the treatment of a variety of parasitic worm infections. In the US, the best-known brand of this medication is Albenza. Albendazole was discovered in 1975 [1]. This medication is available only with a valid prescription and should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider for optimal results.

How albendazole works

Albendazole works by disrupting microtubule formation in parasitic cells, impairing glucose uptake and depleting energy. Microtubules play a crucial role in nutrient absorption and other cellular processes. Without sufficient energy, the parasite cannot survive. Killing the parasite helps clear the infection.

What is albendazole used for?

It is also used off-label to treat other intestinal parasites:

• Pinworm (threadworm)
• Roundworm
• Whipworm
• Hookworm
• Strongyloidiasis
• Trichinosis
• Cutaneous and visceral larva migrans
• Metronidazole-resistant giardiasis

Albendazole strengths and forms

Albendazole is available in different strengths and forms, depending on the manufacturer and market. Common strengths include 200 mg and 400 mg tablets. Liquid formulations may also be available.

Our product, Albentel 400 mg, is available in tablet form. Each tablet contains 400 mg of albendazole.

The appropriate strength and dosage depend on the type of infection, your age and weight, and the prescriber's recommendation. Always follow the prescribed treatment schedule. Do not change the dose without consulting a healthcare professional.

How to take albendazole

Taking this anti-worm (anthelmintic) medication correctly ensures the best results. Follow these guidelines:

• Take this medicine with food, especially fatty foods, to improve absorption.
• Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water.
• If you are taking oral suspension, shake it properly before each dose.
• Take this medicine at the same time every day.
• Complete the full course of this medication and do not stop taking it early, even if you feel better.
• Check the expiry date before taking it.
• Follow all your doctor's instructions.

Side effects of albendazole

Common side effects

• Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort - some people may experience mild stomach pain, cramps or discomfort after taking albendazole.
• Nausea and vomiting - mainly through local gastrointestinal irritation and reactions to dying parasites.
• Headache - a mild headache may occur during treatment and usually goes away on its own.
• Dizziness or vertigo - some people may feel dizzy, lightheaded, or experience a spinning sensation.
• Diarrhoea - loose or frequent stools may occur as the digestive system reacts to the medication.
• Elevated liver enzymes (seen on blood tests).
• Hair loss - reversible thinning or hair loss, particularly during longer or high-dose treatment.
• Fever - a mild fever may develop during treatment, which may be related to the body's response to the medicine or the infection being treated.

Get help if you experience

• Bone marrow suppression and blood disorders: reduced production of blood cells that can cause severe anaemia, low white blood cells (neutropenia/leukopenia) that increase infection risk, and low platelets (thrombocytopenia) that can cause bleeding or bruising.
• Liver injury: such as hepatitis or severe liver damage, shown by yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or upper stomach pain.
• Neurological reactions: such as increased pressure in the brain, brain inflammation, or seizures, particularly when treating neurocysticercosis, as dying parasites trigger local inflammation.
• Severe allergic reactions: such as hives, skin rash, or blistering and peeling of the skin.
• Kidney problems.
• Birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Who should not take albendazole?

• Pregnant women: this medication can harm an unborn baby, especially during the first trimester. Women who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period afterwards as advised by their doctor.
• Allergy: people with a history of hypersensitivity or severe allergic reactions to albendazole.
• Bone marrow problems: people with a history of bone marrow depression or low blood cell counts, as there is a high risk of severe blood-related side effects.
• Liver problems: people with pre-existing liver problems or abnormal liver function tests need close monitoring, as it can occasionally cause liver injury.
• Kidney impairment.
• Children under 2 years: dosing for infants and very young children requires direct medical evaluation. Consult a doctor before using this medication.

Possible interactions

Albendazole does not mix well with some medicines. This includes:

• Anticonvulsants (seizure medications) such as phenytoin, fosphenytoin, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital. They speed up albendazole metabolism in the liver, lowering its blood concentration and potentially reducing its effectiveness.
• Acalabrutinib and ropeginterferon alfa-2b: combining these or other bone-marrow-suppressing medicines may increase the risk of bone marrow suppression.
• Dexamethasone and praziquantel.
• Cimetidine.
• Theophylline.

This list may not include all the possible interactions of albendazole. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take and your medical history before starting this medication.

Other things to remember while taking albendazole

• Do not share this medicine with other people, even if they have the same condition as you.
• Visit your healthcare professional for regular checks on your progress.
• Keep albendazole tablets in their original packaging.
• Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Store the tablets at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
• Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Albendazole vs mebendazole

Albendazole and mebendazole are both in the same group of medications (antiparasitic), but they have some key differences.

Albendazole in the US, UK and Australia

How to order albendazole online with a prescription

Prashi Pharma is an online pharmaceutical supply platform that makes it easy to order quality medicines online. Below are the simple steps to order albendazole from Prashi Pharma:

1. Choose the albendazole brand and strength recommended by your doctor.
2. Add the medicine to your cart.
3. Enter your information, such as contact details and delivery address.
4. Upload your prescription during checkout.
5. Our registered pharmacist will check your prescription.
6. Once your prescription is verified, your order will be processed and delivered in secure packaging.

How to order · Prescription policy · Shipping policy

Sources

1. Albendazole – MedlinePlus Drug Information
2. Taeniasis and cysticercosis – WHO
3. Zentel – healthdirect (Australia)