Albendazole is an antiparasitic remedy widely used in the treatment of infections caused by various intestinal parasites and of the tissues and giardiasis in children.
This drug can be purchased from conventional pharmacies as a trade name of Zentel, Parazin, Monozol or Albentel, in the form of tablets or syrup, for a price of about 6 to 10 reais depending on the brand and the pharmaceutical form.
What is it for
Albendazole is a remedy with anti-helminthic and antiprotozoal activity and is indicated for the treatment against parasites Ascaris lumbricoides, Enterobius vermicularis, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercoralis, Taenia spp. and Hymenolepis nana .
In addition, it may also be used in the treatment of opisthyschisis caused by Opisthorchis viverrini and cutaneous larva migrans, as well as giardiasis in children, caused by Giardia lamblia, G. duodenalis, G. intestinalis.
See which symptoms may indicate that you actually have worms and which tests to check for the type of worm.
How to take
The dosage of Albendazole varies according to the intestinal worm and the pharmaceutical form in question. The tablets can be chewed with the help of a little water, especially in children, and may also be crushed. In case of oral suspension, only drink the liquid.
The recommended dose depends on the parasite causing the infection, as shown in the following table:
| Indications | Age | Dose | Period |
Ascaris lumbricoides Necator americanus Trichuris trichiura Enterobius vermicularis Ancylostoma duodenale | Adults and children over 2 years old | 400 mg or a 40 mg / ml vial of the suspension | Single dose |
Strongyloides stercoralis Taenia spp. Hymenolepis nana | Adults and children over 2 years old | 400 mg or a 40 mg / ml vial of the suspension | 1 serving per day for 3 days |
|
Giardia lamblia G. duodenalis G. intestinalis | Children from 2 to 12 years old | 400 mg or a 40 mg / ml vial of the suspension | 1 serving per day for 5 days |
| Cutaneous larva migrans | Adults and children over 2 years old | 400 mg or a 40 mg / ml vial of the suspension | 1 serving per day for 1 to 3 days |
| Opisthorchis viverrini | Adults and children over 2 years old | 400 mg or a 40 mg / ml vial of the suspension | 2 servings per day for 3 days |
All the elements living in the same house must make the treatment.
Possible side effects
Side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, fever and hives.
Who should not take
This medicine is contraindicated for pregnant women, women who wish to become pregnant or are breast-feeding. In addition, it should also not be used by people with hypersensitivity to any component of the formula.
