Albendazole (for Specific Tapeworms)
Albendazole is a broad-spectrum synthetic anthelmintic agent. For systemic tapeworm infections (such as hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis), it targets larval forms by inhibiting tubulin polymerization, resulting in microtubule loss, glucose depletion, and eventual death of the parasite. Systemic absorption is critical for these tissue-dwelling parasites and is significantly increased (up to 5-fold) when albendazole is administered with a high-fat meal.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosing for systemic tapeworm infections is weight-based for individuals weighing less than 60 kg, typically calculated at 15 mg/kg/day split into two daily doses, up to a maximum daily limit of 800 mg. It must be administered with a high-fat meal. Treatment duration varies widely: typically 8 to 30 days for neurocysticercosis, and up to three 28-day cycles (separated by 14-day drug-free intervals) for hydatid disease. Regular liver function tests and blood counts are required during long-term therapy.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely recommended
- Frequency
- Consult specialist
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy are not well-established in infants under 1 year of age or under 5 kg. Requires specialist pediatric evaluation.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 37.5 mg to 52.5 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals
- Tracking Notes
- Calculated based on 15 mg/kg/day split into two doses. Use oral suspension for accurate dosing.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 60 mg to 75 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals
- Tracking Notes
- Must be taken with high-fat food to ensure adequate systemic absorption for tissue-dwelling larvae.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 82.5 mg to 112.5 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals
- Tracking Notes
- For neurocysticercosis, concomitant corticosteroids and anticonvulsants are often prescribed to manage inflammatory reactions during cyst degradation.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 120 mg to 150 mg per dose
- Frequency
- Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor liver transaminases and complete blood counts at the start and every 2 weeks during prolonged therapy.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routinely recommended | Consult specialist | Safety and efficacy are not well-established in infants under 1 year of age or under 5 kg. Requires specialist pediatric evaluation. |
| 5-7 kg | 37.5 mg to 52.5 mg per dose | Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals | Calculated based on 15 mg/kg/day split into two doses. Use oral suspension for accurate dosing. |
| 8-10 kg | 60 mg to 75 mg per dose | Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals | Must be taken with high-fat food to ensure adequate systemic absorption for tissue-dwelling larvae. |
| 11-15 kg | 82.5 mg to 112.5 mg per dose | Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals | For neurocysticercosis, concomitant corticosteroids and anticonvulsants are often prescribed to manage inflammatory reactions during cyst degradation. |
| 16-20 kg | 120 mg to 150 mg per dose | Twice daily (every 12 hours) with fatty meals | Monitor liver transaminases and complete blood counts at the start and every 2 weeks during prolonged therapy. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of parenchymal neurocysticercosis (caused by Taenia solium larval stage) and active cystic hydatid disease (caused by Echinococcus granulosus larval stage).
Generic Name
AlbendazoleBranded Drug Names
Albendazole (for Specific Tapeworms) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.