Flushof: A Brand of Albendazole for Tapeworm Infections

What it is

Flushof is a brand of albendazole. Albendazole belongs to a class of medicines called anthelmintics, which work against worm infections. Specifically, it targets tapeworm larvae infections.

What it's used for

Flushof is used to treat two types of tapeworm infections: neurocysticercosis (active lesions in the brain caused by larvae of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium) and cystic hydatid disease (cysts in the liver, lungs, or abdominal cavity caused by larvae of the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus).

How it's taken

The dosage depends on the condition and the patient's weight. For individuals weighing 60 kg or more, the typical dose is 400 mg twice daily. For those weighing less than 60 kg, the dose is 15 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into two doses (maximum 800 mg per day). For hydatid disease, treatment follows a 28-day cycle followed by 14 days off the medicine, repeated for three cycles. For neurocysticercosis, treatment usually lasts 8 to 30 days. The tablets should be taken with food. Your doctor will determine the exact dosing and duration for your specific case.

Common side effects

In patients being treated for hydatid disease, common side effects (occurring in at least 1% of people) include abnormal liver function test results, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, reversible hair loss, headache, dizziness or vertigo, and fever. In patients being treated for neurocysticercosis, common side effects include headache, nausea or vomiting, raised pressure inside the skull, and signs of meningitis (stiff neck, fever, confusion).

Important cautions

Do not take Flushof if you are allergic to albendazole or any other benzimidazole medicines. Albendazole can cause bone marrow suppression, which can be serious or even fatal. Your doctor should check your blood counts at the beginning of each 28-day treatment cycle and every two weeks while you are on therapy. If significant changes occur, the medicine should be stopped. Albendazole can also harm an unborn baby. Women who can become pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment and should avoid becoming pregnant during treatment. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for complete safety information.

Frequently asked questions