What is Albendazole?
Albendazole is an antihelmintic (an-thel-MIN-tik) (also known as an anti-worm) drug. It stops newly born insect larvae (worms) from forming or multiplying inside your body.
Albendazole is a medication used to treat some worm-related infections, like pork tapeworm or tapeworms in dogs. Albendazole can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side Effects of Albendazole
Contact a medical professional immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, like hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.
Albendazole can cause serious adverse side effects.
- Fevers, colds, irritation of the throat, and mouth sores. Feeling lightheaded.
- A seizure.
- Increased pressure in the skull: severe headaches, ringing in the ears, dizziness, nausea, eye problems, and eye pain.
Common adverse effects of albendazole could include:
- Headaches, neck stiffness, and increased sensitivity to light.
- Fever.
- Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
- Abnormal tests of liver function.
- Dizziness, spinning sensation.
- Temporary loss of hair.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Albendazole can cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Use effective birth control when taking albendazole and for a minimum of 3 days following your last dose.
Before you take this drug
This medication is for you if you have an allergy to albendazole or similar drugs like mebendazole.
Speak to your doctor if you are ever diagnosed with:
- Eye problems (especially problems that affect your retina);
- Liver disease or
- Suppressing the marrow.
Albendazole can cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Use effective birth control methods to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication and for at least three days following your last dose. Consult your physician when you begin to become pregnant. You might need to undergo an unfavorable pregnancy test prior to commencing this treatment. It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your physician regarding any risks.
How to take albendazole?
Follow the directions on the prescription label and also read the medication guides or instruction sheets. Make sure you use the medication precisely as prescribed. If you're unable to take the tablet completely, it is possible to crush or chew it before swallowing by drinking a glass full of water. There may be different medications to help prevent certain adverse effects associated with albendazole or other adverse effects that could occur if parasites die inside your body. Albendazole dosages are determined by weight (especially for adolescents and children). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.
Utilize albendazole for the prescribed time period even if your symptoms begin to improve. Inadequate doses could increase the chance of developing an infection that is resistant to treatment. Albendazole does not treat viruses like influenza as well as the typical cold. Albendazole could increase the chances of contracting an infection or bleeding. You'll require frequent medical tests. Your liver function could require a check every two weeks. Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Do not take the medicine for as long as you are able, but do not take your missed dose if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Beware of those who are sick or suffering from infections. Inform your doctor immediately in the event that you show symptoms of an infection.
Interaction with other drugs
There are times when it's not recommended to take certain medications simultaneously. Certain drugs may affect your blood levels and the other drugs that you are taking. This could create side effects or render the drugs less effective.
Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, particularly:
- Dexamethasone.
- Praziquantel.
- Cimetidine.
This list isn't exhaustive. Other medications can affect albendazole, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs that are listed here.
