Albenza (Albendazole)

Please read the instructions before using Albenza tablets. Albenza (albendazole) should be administered as follows to ensure optimal absorption:

1. Take Albenza with meals, especially food containing fat.
2. For maximum effectiveness, take the medication by mouth with meals 1 to 2 times daily, as directed by a doctor.
3. The tablets can be crushed or chewed and swallowed with water.
4. When treating intraluminal infections, administration on an empty stomach may maximize absorption.

The fatty meal significantly enhances oral absorption by:

• Stimulating gastric acid secretion, which lowers pH and increases albendazole's solubility.
• Allowing albendazole to dissolve better in lipids, helping it cross the lipid barrier of the GI tract's mucus surface.

This approach can increase plasma concentrations of albendazole sulfoxide (the active metabolite) up to 5-fold on average compared to the fasted state

Common side effects of Albenza

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness
• Temporary hair loss
• Fever
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Neck stiffness
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Confusion
• Spinning sensation

Serious side effects of Albenza

• Severe headaches
• Increased pressure inside the skull
• Seizures
• Fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, feeling light-headed
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Temporary hair loss

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Albenza,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to Albendazole, other benzimidazole medications (like mebendazole), or any ingredients in Albenza.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially liver disease, bile duct problems, or blood/bone marrow disorders before using Albenza.

Albenza can cause liver problems. Limit alcohol consumption while using this medication to reduce the risk.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) before undergoing surgery.

Albenza can harm an unborn baby. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not use Albenza. Discuss birth control methods with your healthcare provider before using this medication and for 3 days after the last dose.

Albenza passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using this medication.

Albenza Drug Interactions

Some notable interactions include: Dexamethasone: Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations by about 56%. Praziquantel: Increases albendazole sulfoxide plasma concentration and area under the curve by about 50%. Cimetidine: Increases albendazole sulfoxide concentrations in bile and cystic fluid by about 2-fold. Theophylline: Albendazole may affect theophylline levels, requiring monitoring. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist for a comprehensive list of potential drug interactions before taking Albenza.

Brand Name:	Albenza
Generic name:	Albendazole
Other Names:	Andazol
Strength(s):	200mg, 400mg
Quantities Available:	6, 12, 40, 60, 120
Formulation:	Tablet