Arteben-Albendazole (Albendazole) Capsules: Uses and Safety

What it is

Arteben-Albendazole is a brand of albendazole, an anthelmintic medicine (a type of drug that fights parasitic worms). It comes as 400 mg capsules and is registered with NAFDAC under number A11-100821.

What it's used for

Arteben-Albendazole is used to treat two types of parasitic infections: neurocysticercosis caused by larval forms of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), and cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum caused by the larval form of the dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus).

How it's taken

Dosing depends on the condition being treated and the patient's weight. Albendazole should be taken with food. For neurocysticercosis, the typical treatment period is 8 to 30 days. For hydatid disease, it is usually given in cycles of 28 days followed by a 14-day break, for a total of three cycles. For patients weighing 60 kg or more, a typical dose is 400 mg twice daily. For patients weighing less than 60 kg, the dose is based on body weight. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions.

Common side effects

For hydatid disease, common side effects (occurring in 1% or more of patients) include abnormal liver function tests, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, reversible hair loss, headache, dizziness or vertigo, and fever. For neurocysticercosis, common side effects include headache, nausea or vomiting, raised intracranial pressure, and signs of meningeal irritation.

Important cautions

Arteben-Albendazole should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to benzimidazole drugs or any of its components. Serious warnings include bone marrow suppression, which can be fatal. Blood counts must be monitored at the start of each 28-day treatment cycle and every two weeks during therapy. If significant changes occur, treatment should be stopped. Albendazole can cause harm to an unborn baby. Women of reproductive potential should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment and avoid pregnancy during therapy.

Frequently asked questions