Basic Albendazole Information

International Nonproprietary Name (INN): Albendazole Brand Names Available in Australia: | Brand Name | Country/Region | Manufacturer / Packager | Dosage Form and Strength | |-------------------------|---------------------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------| | Zentel | Switzerland, Global | GlaxoSmithKline | Tablets: 400 mg, Suspension: 10 ml (400 mg)| | Albenza | USA, Global | Impax Labs Inc, Edenbridge Pharms | Tablets: 200 mg, 400 mg | | Eskazole | Multiple | Various | Tablets: 200 mg | | Albendazol Labormed | Romania | Labormed Pharma | Tablets: 200 mg, 400 mg | | Albendazol Medley | Brazil | Medley | Tablets: 400 mg | | Albendazol Neo Quimica | Brazil | Neo Química | Tablets: 400 mg | | Albendazol MK | Colombia, Ecuador | MK | Tablets: 200 mg, 400 mg | | Zenzera | Thailand | Bangkok Lab & Cosmetic | Tabs, Syrup: 20 ml (concentration varies) | | Zestaval | Cyprus, Malta, Slovenia | Remedica, Sanolabor | Tablets: 200 mg | | Zolben | Brazil | Sanofi-Aventis | Tablets: 400 mg | | Valbazen (Vet) | Global | MSD Animal Health | Oral Suspension [veterinary] | ATC Code (WHO/EMEA): P02CA03 (P – Antiparasitic products; 02 – Anthelmintics; CA – Benzimidazole derivatives; 03 – Albendazole) Pharmacological/Drug Class: Anthelmintic; active against gastrointestinal and tissue parasites. Available Dosage Forms & Concentrations: | Dosage Form | Strength | Typical Packaging | |----------------------|---------------------|-------------------------------------| | Oral Tablet | 200 mg, 400 mg | Blister 1-10 tabs, bottle | | Chewable Tablet | 200 mg, 400 mg | Blister | | Oral Suspension | 100 mg/5ml, 200 mg/5ml, 400 mg/10ml | 10ml, 20ml, 30ml bottles |

Availability & Price Landscape

How It Works in the Body

Layman’s explanation

Albendazole acts like a thief in the night, targeting parasites by cutting off their sugar supply. When the drug is ingested, it interrupts the metabolism of these unwanted guests, stopping them from absorbing glucose. As a result, they cannot survive and eventually die off. This process is particularly effective against intestinal worms, helping to clear the infection while allowing the body to recover safely.

Clinical detail

In clinical settings, albendazole is classified as an anthelmintic, primarily because it binds to the parasite's tubulin. This binding disrupts the formation of microtubules, which are essential for the parasites’ cellular functions. Consequently, the immobilisation of the parasite occurs alongside a depletion of its glycogen stores. This mechanism is key to effectively eradicating worms from the gastrointestinal tract and surrounding tissues.

Dosage & Administration

Standard regimens

The dosage of albendazole can differ based on the condition being treated. For general helminth infections—like ascariasis, trichuriasis, and enterobiasis—the typical dosage for adults is 400 mg as a single dose. In cases such as neurocysticercosis, the dosage can be customised according to body weight, commonly at 15 mg/kg/day, not exceeding 800 mg.

Adjustments by patient type

There are specific considerations for different patient types regarding albendazole administration. Elderly patients may not require adjustments, but it's crucial to monitor their liver function closely. Children over two generally follow adult dosages, while those under two should be assessed for safety due to limited data. Moreover, practitioners need to pay attention to dosing intervals, especially for chronic conditions that may require extended treatment cycles.

Contraindications & Side Effects

Common

Most users tolerate albendazole well; however, some experience common side effects. Reports often mention gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort, alongside mild neurological effects such as headaches. Thankfully, most side effects are temporary and resolve with time or adjustments in treatment.

Rare but serious

While serious side effects are rare, awareness is crucial. Data from Australia indicates risks such as blood dyscrasias, leading to pancytopenia, and potential severe liver injuries. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential for patients with pre-existing liver conditions or those undergoing prolonged treatments. Hypersensitivity issues must also be evaluated, particularly in pregnant women during their first trimester.

Comparable Medicines

Alternatives table

Alternative Medication	Indications	Formulations
Mebendazole	Gastrointestinal worm infections	Tablets, liquid
Ivermectin	Strongyloidiasis, scabies	Tablets, topical
Praziquantel	Cestode infections	Tablets, injectable

Pros and cons list

Pros:

• Effective against a wide variety of parasites.
• Offers multiple formulations to cater to different patient requirements.

Cons:

• Requires a prescription in Australia, possibly complicating access.
• Potential side effects could arise, particularly in vulnerable groups.

In summary, albendazole serves as a trusted first-line treatment. However, other alternatives are available, which may be more suitable based on individual health conditions and preferences.

Current Research & Trends

Understanding the evolving landscape of albendazole research is crucial for both healthcare professionals and patients. Recent advancements highlight the versatility of this medication beyond traditional uses. Studies are showing promising results in various fields, indicating a continuing importance in global health initiatives.

Major studies 2022–2025 (Australia + international)

Recent investigations have delved into the efficacy of albendazole in addressing not only conventional worm infections but also a broad spectrum of parasite-related health conditions. Particularly noteworthy are findings related to its application in mass deworming programs across communities in Queensland. Evidence suggests that such initiatives have led to substantial reductions in parasitic loads, positively impacting public health.

Internationally, ongoing clinical trials are evaluating albendazole's potential as an antitumour agent, focusing specifically on its effects on cell division in cancer cells. The excitement around this area of research stems from preliminary data that indicate albendazole might play a role in halting cancer progression.

Longitudinal studies are progressively examining the safety and efficacy of prolonged use, particularly in relation to resistance patterns observed in different organisms. Emerging data emphasises significant variations in efficacy linked to demographic factors such as age and geographic location, reinforcing the necessity for tailored treatment strategies.

This growing body of research not only supports the established uses of albendazole 400 mg, often found over the counter in Australian pharmacies, but also opens new avenues for its application. With each study, the aim is to refine and improve treatment protocols, ensuring better outcomes for patients globally.

City	Region	Delivery time
Sydney	New South Wales	5–7 days
Melbourne	Victoria	5–7 days
Brisbane	Queensland	5–7 days
Perth	Western Australia	5–7 days
Adelaide	South Australia	5–7 days
Hobart	Tasmania	5–9 days
Canberra	Australian Capital Territory	5–7 days
Gold Coast	Queensland	5–9 days
Newcastle	New South Wales	5–9 days
Wollongong	New South Wales	5–9 days
Geelong	Victoria	5–9 days
Sunshine Coast	Queensland	5–9 days