Alben-DS 400 mg

Description

Indications

Alben-DS is prescribed for the treatment of single and mixed infestations caused by various parasitic worms, including:

• Hookworms (Ancylostoma, Necator)
• Roundworms (Ascaris)
• Threadworms (Enterobius)
• Whipworms (Trichuris)
• Strongyloides
• Tapeworms
• Opisthorchi
• Hydatid disease

Use this medication only as directed by a registered physician.

Description

Alben-DS is a benzimidazole-based anthelmintic that effectively targets a broad range of nematodes and certain cestodes. It is primarily used for treating intestinal nematode infections and, at higher doses, for managing hydatid disease. Alben-DS works by disrupting tubulin polymerization, leading to the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules in parasites. This mechanism results in its vermicidal, ovicidal, and larvicidal effects.

Pharmacology

Albendazole, the active ingredient in Alben-DS, is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic. It functions by inhibiting glucose uptake in parasites, causing a depletion of energy reserves necessary for their survival. This leads to immobilization and eventual death of the parasite. The drug primarily binds to and inhibits tubulin polymerization in the parasite, although it can also bind to human tubulin.

Albendazole is extensively metabolized, mainly in the liver, and undergoes rapid first-pass metabolism. Its primary metabolite, albendazole sulphoxide, exhibits anthelmintic activity and has a plasma half-life of approximately 8.5 hours. The drug and its metabolites are excreted through the urine.

Dosage & Administration

For Adults & Children Over 2 Years

• A single 400 mg dose (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) is recommended for infections caused by Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Necator americanus.
• For strongyloidiasis or taeniasis, 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) should be taken daily for three consecutive days. If follow-up after three weeks shows the infection persists, a second treatment course is required.

For Children Aged 1-2 Years

• A single 200 mg dose (5 ml suspension) is recommended.

For Children Under 1 Year

• Not recommended.

For Hydatid Disease (Echinococcosis)

• Patients weighing over 60 kg: 400 mg twice daily for 28 days.
• Patients weighing under 60 kg: 15 mg/kg body weight per day in two divided doses (maximum total daily dose of 800 mg).
• For cystic echinococcosis, the 28-day treatment cycle may be repeated after a 14-day break, up to a total of three cycles.
• For alveolar echinococcosis, repeated 28-day cycles with 14-day breaks may be necessary for prolonged periods, sometimes months or years.

For Giardiasis

• 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) once daily for five days.

Use this medication only as directed by a registered physician.

Drug Interactions

No known pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic interactions have been reported with Alben-DS.

Contraindications

• Neonates: Albendazole is not recommended for use in newborns.
• Children: A reduced dose (200 mg) may be considered for children weighing under 10 kg, but routine dose reductions for children are not generally necessary.
• Pregnant Women: Albendazole should not be used during pregnancy or in women suspected to be pregnant, as no data is available on placental transfer.
• Concurrent Diseases: No evidence suggests dosage adjustments are required in cases of renal, hepatic, or cardiac conditions.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or abdominal pain
• Headache and dizziness
• Temporary changes in liver enzyme levels
• Rarely, reversible hair loss (alopecia)
• Skin rash and fever
• Blood disorders like leukopenia and pancytopenia
• In rare cases, allergic shock due to cyst leakage
• Convulsions or meningitis-like symptoms in cerebral infections

Pregnancy & Lactation

Albendazole is classified as a Category C drug by the US FDA, meaning it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Precautions & Warnings

• Blood counts and liver function tests should be conducted before treatment and twice during each treatment cycle.
• Pregnancy must be ruled out before starting treatment.
• Use in echinococcosis requires strict medical supervision, with regular monitoring of serum transaminase levels and blood cell counts.

Therapeutic Class

Anthelmintic

Storage Conditions

Store in a dry place, away from direct light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.