Abentel (Albendazole)

Description

Albendazole is a broad spectrum anthelmintic, which is highly effective against a wide range of intestinal helminths. Albendazole exhibits larvicidal, ovicidal and vermicidal activity via inhibition of tubulin polymerization. This causes a cascade of metabolic disruption, including energy depletion, which immobilizes and kills the susceptible helminth.

Presentation

Albentel-400 Tablet: Each chewable tablet contains Albendazole USP 400 mg.

Dosage & Administration

Adults of children over 2 years of age: 400 mg as a single dose. In cases of strongyloidiasis or taeniasis, 400 mg as single dose should be given for 3 consecutive days. If the patient is not cured on follow-up after three weeks, a second course of treatment is indicated. Children of 1-2 years: Recommended dose is a single dose of 200 mg. Children under 1 year: Not recommended.

Contrainidications

Abentel is contraindicated in persons who are known to be hypersensitive to albendazole,
other benzimidazole derivatives, or any component of the tablet

Warning & Precautions

Cimetidine, praziquantel and dexamethasone have been reported to increase the plasma level of Albendazole active metabolite.

Side effects

Abdominal pain was the most frequently reported symptom during short term dosing. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and/or skin rashes were also reported.

Drug interaction

Use in special groups

Use in pregnancy (pregnancy category D):Albendazole is contraindicated during pregnancy and for one month prior to conception. In order to avoid administering albendazole during early pregnancy, women of childbearing age (15-45) should initiate treatment during the first week of menstruation or after a negative pregnancy test.

Use in lactation: Adequate human and animal data on use during lactation are not available. Therefore breast-feeding should be discontinued during and for a minimum of 5 days after treatment.

Packing

Abentel-400 Tablet: Each box contains 50 tablets