Albendazole is an anthelmintic (an-thel-MIN-tik) or anti-worm medication. It prevents recently hatched insect larvae (worms) from growing or multiplying in your body. Albendazole is used to treat certain infections caused by worms like pork tapeworm and dog tapeworm. Albendazole might also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Important Information Albendazole may damage an unborn baby. Use effective birth control while taking albendazole and to get three or more days after your last dose. Before taking this medication You should not use this medicine if you're allergic to albendazole, or to similar drugs such as mebendazole. Tell your Physician if you have ever had: • eye problems (particularly a problem with your retina); • liver disease; golden • bone marrow elimination. Albendazole may damage an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and for at least 3 days after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant. You might need to have a negative pregnancy test prior to starting this treatment. It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your physician about any risk. How should I take albendazole? Follow all directions on your prescription label and examine all medication guides or documentation sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Take with meals. If you cannot swallow the tablet whole, you may crush or chew it and swallow with a complete glass of plain water. You might be given other medications to avoid certain side effects of albendazole, or particular effects which could result when the parasites die within your body. Albendazole doses are based on weight (particularly in children and teens ). Your dose demands can change if you gain or drop weight.
Use albendazole for the whole prescribed period of time, even if your symptoms quickly enhance. Skipping doses may increase your risk of disease that's resistant to drugs. Albendazole will not deal with a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold. Albendazole may raise your chance of bleeding or infection. You'll need regular medical tests. Your liver function may also have to be assessed every two weeks. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. What other drugs will affect albendazole? Sometimes it isn't safe to use specific medications at the same time. Some medications can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which might increase unwanted effects or make the medications less effective. Inform your doctor about all your other medicines, particularly: • dexamethasone ; • praziquantel; gold • cimetidine . This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect albendazole, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products. Not all potential drug interactions are recorded here.