What is Albenza used for?
ALBENDAZOLE is an antiparasitic. It is used for the treatment of infections of the tapeworms or other parasites.
What should I discuss with my physician prior to taking Albenza?
Please do tell your physician if you have any of the following conditions:
- anemia
- biliary tract blockage
- immune system problems
- liver disease
- an unusual or allergic reaction to albendazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How is Albenza should be taken?
Take it orally during a meal accompanied with a glass of water. It is possible to crush or chew this medicine. Take all of this medicine as directed even if you feel the improvement to your symptoms. Doses should never be skipped; neither should you stop the treatment course prematurely.
Consult with your pediatrician regarding the possibility of use of this medicine by children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for certain conditions, the necessary precautions should be applied.
Overdosage: If you suspect an overdosage, get in touch with the nearest poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTE: This medicine is only intended for your use. You should never share it with the others.
What to do if I missed a dose of Albenza?
If you missed a dose, it should be taken as soon as possible. If the time has almost come for the next dose, only that one should be taken. You should never take double or extra doses; a single doze is sufficient for the purposes.
What are the possible interactions of Albenza with the other medicine/food/etc?
- cimetidine
- dexamethasone
- praziquantel
- theophylline
This list is not all-inclusive. Provide your health care provider with a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you are using. Also tell them whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some of those items may also interact with your medicine.
Is there anything I should pay attention to while taking Albenza?
Visit your doctor or health care professional as directed. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if you get a new symptoms.You will need to have a blood tests done every 2 weeks during the treatment course with this medicine.
Do not get pregnant while taking this drug and during the month following the end of your treatment course. Inquire with your doctor about effective birth control methods. Tell your doctor if you think you may be pregnant.
You may experience drowsiness or dizziness symptoms. You shouldn’t drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how exactly this medicine affects you. Do not stand up or sit up quickly, especially if you are a senior patient. This is to reduce the risk of possible dizziness or fainting spells.
Does Albenza have any possible side effects?
The following side effects should be reported to your doctor or health care professional as soon as they are noticed:
- allergic reactions like skin rashes, itching or hives,face, lips, or tongue swelling
- changes in vision
- diarrhea
- difficulty breathing
- fast irregular heartbeat
- fever, chills, sore throat
- pain, difficulty passing urine
- redness, blistering, skin peeling or loosening, including the inside the mouth
- seizures
- unusual aches, pains
- unusual bleeding, bruising
- unusual weakness or feeling tired
- yellowing of eyes, skin
The side effects listed below usually do not necessarily require any medical attention (please do report them to your physician if they are recurrent or bothersome):
- dizziness
- hair loss
- headache
- nausea, vomiting
- stomach pain
Other side effects are also possible, the above list is not all inclusive.
Where should I keep Albenza?
Keep this medicine out of the children’s reach.
This medicine should be stored at the room temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Dispose of any unused medicine after the expiry date is reached.