Albendazole 200 mg

Albendazole 200 mg — Uses and Benefits

Albendazole 200 mg is used to treat infections caused by intestinal worms such as roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of roundworm (Ascaris) infection
• Treatment of hookworm infection
• Treatment of whipworm (Trichuris) infection
• Treatment of threadworm and pinworm infections
• Treatment of certain tapeworm infections
• Sometimes used for other parasitic infections as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks the worm's ability to absorb glucose, its main energy source
• This leads to loss of energy and eventual death of the worm
• Dead worms are then passed out of the body naturally

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used to treat bacterial or viral infections
• Not a treatment for general stomach pain unrelated to worm infection
• Not used for malaria or other protozoal infections
• Not a substitute for good hygiene and sanitation practices

How to Use Albendazole 200 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually as a single dose or short course
• Can be taken with or after food, preferably with a fatty meal to improve absorption
• Swallow the tablet with water; it can also be chewed or crushed if advised
• Complete the full course even if you feel better
• Follow any instructions about repeating the dose after a few weeks, if given by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as scheduled
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink

Albendazole 200 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fever
• Weakness or tiredness
• Hair thinning (with prolonged use)

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe stomach pain
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or lips, difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling
• Unexplained fever with sore throat (possible sign of low blood cell counts)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Albendazole 200 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to albendazole or other similar anti-worm medicines
• Are pregnant, especially in the first trimester, unless your doctor advises otherwise

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver disease
• Have a history of blood disorders
• Are breastfeeding
• Are planning pregnancy
• Have any known bone marrow problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Dexamethasone and other steroids
• Cimetidine
• Praziquantel
• Certain anti-seizure medicines like phenytoin or carbamazepine
• Grapefruit juice may affect absorption

This is a prescription medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take albendazole without a doctor's prescription?

No, it is a prescription medicine in India and should be taken only as advised by a doctor.

Can children take this medicine?

Yes, but the dose and suitability depend on the child's age and weight, so it should be given only as prescribed by a doctor.

Do I need to repeat the dose after some time?

• Some worm infections require a repeat dose after a few weeks; follow your doctor's specific instructions.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.