What it is used for
- Intestinal worm infections such as roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, pinworm, and threadworm
- Tissue parasite infections such as hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis
- Some other worm infections like strongyloidiasis
How it works
Albendazole stops worms from absorbing the sugar (glucose) they need for energy, so the parasites lose their energy supply, are unable to survive, and are cleared from the body.
How it is taken
Taken as oral tablets (including chewable forms) or a liquid suspension. For tissue infections it is often taken with a fatty meal to help absorption and given over a longer period, while intestinal worms may need only a short course. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Stomach pain or upset
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Temporary hair thinning with long courses
- Mild changes in liver tests
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe tummy pain — seek urgent care
- Sore throat, fever, or unusual bruising suggesting a drop in blood counts — seek urgent care
- Severe allergic or skin reaction — seek emergency care
- New or worsening seizures or severe headache during treatment of brain cysts — seek urgent care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Some medicines that affect liver enzymes (dexamethasone, cimetidine, praziquantel can raise drug levels)
- Certain antiepileptic medicines
- Other medicines that can affect the liver
Who should take care
- Long courses need monitoring of blood counts and liver function
- Tell your clinician if you could be pregnant — pregnancy should usually be excluded before longer courses
- Report liver disease or bone-marrow problems
- Inform your clinician if breastfeeding
- Treating household contacts may be advised for some worms — ask your clinician