Albendazole 400mg

Albendazole 400mg — Uses and Benefits

Albendazole 400mg is used to treat infections caused by intestinal worms and certain other parasites.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and threadworm infections
• Tapeworm infections in some cases
• Certain tissue infections caused by larval worms, such as hydatid disease, when prescribed by a specialist
• Neurocysticercosis (a worm infection affecting the brain) under specialist supervision

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks the worm's ability to take up glucose, its main energy source
• This starves the worm and disrupts its internal structure
• Over time the worm dies and is eventually passed out of the body

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat bacterial, viral or fungal infections
• It is not effective against malaria or other blood parasites
• It should not be used for general stomach upset without a confirmed worm infection
• It is not a substitute for proper hygiene and sanitation practices that prevent reinfection

How to Use Albendazole 400mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in terms of dose and duration
• It is usually taken with food, especially a fatty meal, as this helps absorption
• Swallow the tablet with water; it can also be chewed or crushed if advised
• Do not increase the dose or repeat the course on your own without medical advice
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, especially for longer treatments

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• For a single-dose course, take it as soon as you remember and inform your doctor
• For a multi-day course, take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance

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 a sink

Albendazole 400mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Temporary hair thinning
• Raised liver enzyme levels (usually found on blood tests)
• Fever
• Skin rash or itching

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Signs of low blood counts such as unusual bruising, bleeding, or repeated infections
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Blurred vision or eye pain (rare, seen in certain parasitic eye infections)

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

Albendazole 400mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is prescription-only in India and should be taken only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to albendazole or other similar anti-worm medicines
• Are pregnant, especially in the first trimester
• Have a known history of bone marrow problems, unless advised otherwise by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver disease
• Have any blood disorder or low blood counts
• Are breastfeeding
• Are planning pregnancy soon
• Have neurocysticercosis, as steroids may be needed alongside treatment

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

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

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

It is best taken with food, particularly a fatty meal, as this improves how well the body absorbs it.

Will I need to repeat treatment?

Some infections need only one dose, while others need repeat courses; follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Is it safe for children?

• It can be used in children above a certain age and weight, but the dose and suitability should be decided by a doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.