One pill can do a lot — albendazole is a commonly used antiparasitic that treats a range of worm infections, from pinworms to serious diseases like hydatid cysts and neurocysticercosis. This page cuts straight to what you need to know: when it helps, how to take it, and the safety steps to follow.
Albendazole interferes with parasite cell structures, stopping worms from absorbing sugar and eventually killing them. Doctors prescribe it for intestinal worms (roundworms, hookworms, pinworms), tapeworm infections, hydatid disease (echinococcosis), and neurocysticercosis (tapeworm in the brain). Brand names you might hear are Albenza or Zentel, but many pharmacies sell the generic albendazole.
Doses vary by infection. For simple intestinal worms, a single 400 mg dose often works. For neurocysticercosis, doctors commonly use around 15 mg/kg/day split into two doses for several weeks and combine it with steroids and seizure medicines. For hydatid disease, treatment can stretch for months in cycles (for example, 28 days on, 14 days off). Always follow the exact plan your prescriber gives you — weight, age, and the type of infection change the dose.
Take albendazole with food, ideally a fatty meal. Fat increases how much of the drug your body absorbs, which can make treatment more effective. If you forget a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose — then skip the missed one and continue.
Before long courses, your doctor will usually check liver tests and a blood count. Albendazole can rarely raise liver enzymes or affect the bone marrow if taken for weeks or months. For short, single-dose treatments this monitoring is usually not needed, but for repeated or long therapy expect baseline tests and follow-ups.
Important safety notes: Do not use albendazole during pregnancy, especially the first trimester. Animal studies show a risk to the fetus. Use effective contraception during treatment and for about one month afterward. If you are breastfeeding, check with your doctor — sometimes alternatives are recommended.
Drug interactions matter. Some seizure medicines (like carbamazepine or phenytoin) can lower albendazole levels. Certain drugs such as cimetidine can increase its levels. If you’re on other medicines, tell your prescriber so they can adjust doses or monitor you more closely.
Side effects are usually mild: nausea, stomach pain, headache, or temporary hair thinning. Serious reactions are uncommon but call your doctor if you notice jaundice, severe fatigue, unexplained bruising, or fever.
Bottom line: albendazole is effective and commonly used, but it’s prescription-only, and proper dosing plus some lab monitoring matter when treatment lasts more than a few days. Ask your healthcare provider about the right plan and follow-up tests for your situation.
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