Alberol (Albendazole 400 mg) - Uses and Side Effects

What it is

Alberol contains albendazole, a benzimidazole anthelmintic that works against tapeworm larvae. It is available as 400 mg tablets.

What it's used for

Alberol is used for two types of tapeworm infections: neurocysticercosis, caused by the pork tapeworm larvae in the brain, and cystic hydatid disease, caused by dog tapeworm larvae in the liver, lungs, or abdomen.

How it's taken

Alberol tablets are typically taken with food. Dosing depends on body weight: for adults and children weighing 60 kg or more, the usual dose is 400 mg twice daily. For those weighing less than 60 kg, the dose is 15 mg per kg per day, divided into two doses (maximum 800 mg daily). Treatment length varies: for hydatid disease, a 28-day cycle is followed by a 14-day break, repeated for 3 cycles. For neurocysticercosis, treatment lasts 8 to 30 days. Always follow your doctor's instructions exactly.

Common side effects

In hydatid disease, common side effects (affecting 1% or more of patients) include abnormal liver function tests, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, reversible hair loss, headache, dizziness, vertigo, and fever. In neurocysticercosis, common side effects are headache, nausea or vomiting, raised pressure inside the skull, and meningeal signs (stiff neck, sensitivity to light).

Important cautions

Alberol should not be used by anyone allergic to benzimidazole medicines or any tablet ingredient. It can cause bone marrow suppression, which may be serious. Doctors will monitor blood counts at the start of each 28-day cycle and every 2 weeks during treatment. If blood counts change significantly, treatment must be stopped. Women who can become pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before starting therapy, and the medicine should not be used during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

Frequently asked questions