Nerozetel (Albendazole) 200mg Tablets

What it is

Nerozetel contains albendazole, which belongs to a class of medicines called anthelmintics. These drugs work by killing or paralyzing parasitic worms in the body. It is specifically indicated for two conditions: neurocysticercosis (an infection in the brain caused by the larval form of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium) and hydatid disease (a cyst-forming infection in the liver, lungs, or peritoneum caused by the larval form of the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus).

What it's used for

Nerozetel (albendazole) is used for the treatment of parenchymal neurocysticercosis due to active lesions caused by larval forms of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium. It is also used for the treatment of cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum caused by the larval form of the dog tapeworm, Echinococcus granulosus. These are serious infections that require medical supervision.

How it's taken

Albendazole tablets should be taken with food. The dose and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated and the patient's weight. For hydatid disease, treatment typically involves a 28-day cycle of daily doses followed by a 14-day break, repeated for a total of three cycles. For neurocysticercosis, treatment usually lasts between 8 to 30 days. Always follow your doctor's instructions exactly.

Common side effects

Common side effects (occurring in 1% or more of patients) include: abnormal liver function tests, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, reversible hair loss, headache, dizziness, vertigo, and fever. For neurocysticercosis, additional side effects may include raised intracranial pressure and meningeal signs (stiff neck, headache, fever). If you experience any side effects, inform your doctor.

Important cautions

Nerozetel is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to albendazole or other benzimidazole medicines. Important warnings include: bone marrow suppression (which can be fatal; blood counts should be monitored at the start of each treatment cycle and every two weeks during therapy). Albendazole can cause harm to an unborn baby; women of childbearing potential should have a pregnancy test before starting treatment and should avoid pregnancy during therapy. Use in pregnant women is not recommended except in serious cases.

Frequently asked questions