Meta Description: Learn everything about Albendazole – uses, dosage, benefits, side effects, precautions, and how it works against worm infections. Trusted medical guide.
What is Albendazole?
Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) medicine used to treat different types of worm infections in humans and animals. It belongs to the benzimidazole group of medicines and works by destroying parasites in the body. Albendazole is widely prescribed because of its effectiveness, safety profile, and low cost.
It is listed in the World Health Organization (WHO) Model List of Essential Medicines due to its importance in treating parasitic diseases worldwide.
Medical Uses of Albendazole
Albendazole is effective against a wide range of intestinal and tissue parasites. Some common uses include:
1. Intestinal Worm Infections
Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides)
Hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus)
Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura)
Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis)
2. Tapeworm Infections
Taenia solium (Pork tapeworm) – helps prevent neurocysticercosis
Echinococcus granulosus – treatment for hydatid disease
Echinococcus multilocularis – treatment for alveolar echinococcosis
3. Other Parasitic Infections
Giardiasis (especially in children)
Liver fluke infection (Fasciola hepatica)
Cutaneous larva migrans (skin infection caused by larvae of hookworms)
Toxocariasis (roundworm infection affecting liver, lungs, or eyes)
How Does Albendazole Work?
Albendazole works by:
1. Inhibiting microtubule formation inside parasite cells.
2. Blocking glucose uptake, which prevents worms from producing energy.
3. Causing worm death due to energy depletion.
4. The body then naturally removes the dead worms through stool.
Dosage and Administration
Albendazole is available in tablet, chewable tablet, and suspension (liquid) form.
Adults (General Worm Infection): 400 mg single dose (may repeat after 2 weeks).
Children (≥2 years): 200–400 mg single dose (depending on body weight).
Hydatid Disease / Neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily for 1–3 months (under doctor supervision).
Pinworm Infection: A single 400 mg dose; sometimes repeated after 2 weeks.
> 💡 Tip: Always take Albendazole with fatty food (e.g., milk, cheese, oily food) to increase absorption and effectiveness.
Side Effects of Albendazole
Most people tolerate Albendazole well, but some may experience mild side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Dizziness or headache
Temporary hair loss (rare)
Fever or fatigue
Serious side effects (rare, long-term use):
Liver problems (jaundice, high liver enzymes)
Low white blood cell count
Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
Precautions & Warnings
Before taking Albendazole, keep in mind:
Pregnancy: Not recommended in the first trimester. Use only if prescribed.
Breastfeeding: Use with caution; consult a doctor.
Liver Disease: Patients with liver problems should take Albendazole carefully with regular liver tests.
Children: Safe for children above 2 years (dose adjusted by weight).
Drug Interactions: May interact with cimetidine, dexamethasone, praziquantel, or other medicines.
Storage Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medicine.
Albendazole vs. Other Anthelmintics
Medicine Common Use Duration of Action Special Notes
Albendazole Broad-spectrum worm infections Long Effective for cysticercosis & hydatid disease
Mebendazole Intestinal worms Short Similar to Albendazole but less effective in tissue infections
Praziquantel Tapeworms, schistosomiasis Medium More effective for fluke infections
Ivermectin Strongyloides, onchocerciasis Medium Used for river blindness & scabies
Conclusion
Albendazole is one of the most widely used and effective medications for treating a variety of parasitic infections. It is safe for both adults and children when taken under medical supervision. Correct usage can help prevent complications like malnutrition, anemia, and organ damage caused by parasites.
