Krisdazole (Albendazole) 200 mg Tablet: What You Need to Know

What it is

Krisdazole is a brand of albendazole, which belongs to a class of medicines called anthelmintics. Anthelmintics are drugs that treat infections caused by parasitic worms. This specific product is a 200 mg tablet registered with NAFDAC under number B4-0281.

What it's used for

Krisdazole is used to treat two main types of tapeworm infections: neurocysticercosis, caused by the larval form of the pork tapeworm in the brain, and cystic hydatid disease, caused by the larval form of the dog tapeworm in the liver, lungs, or peritoneum.

How it's taken

Krisdazole tablets are taken by mouth and should be swallowed with food. The dose depends on the patient's weight and the condition being treated. For neurocysticercosis, treatment typically lasts 8 to 30 days. For hydatid disease, it is taken in 28-day cycles followed by a 14-day break, usually for a total of three cycles. Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s instructions exactly.

Common side effects

Common side effects reported in clinical studies include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, fever, and temporary hair loss. In people being treated for neurocysticercosis, raised pressure inside the head and signs of meningitis have also been seen. Some people may experience abnormal liver function test results.

Important cautions

Krisdazole should not be used in people who are allergic to albendazole or any other benzimidazole medicine. It can cause serious bone marrow suppression, which has been fatal in some cases. Your doctor will check your blood counts before starting treatment and every two weeks while you are on the medicine. If significant changes occur, treatment should be stopped. Women who can become pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before starting Krisdazole and should not use it during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

Frequently asked questions