Albendazole Treatment

Albendazole is an anthelmintic medication used in the treatment of infections of the body caused by tapeworms. The medication works by preventing newly hatched worms from growing and multiplying from within the body. As with most anthelmintic medications, there are certain side effects associated with treatment.

Before Taking

• Before taking Albendazole, tell your doctor if you have ever suffered from liver disease or any type of liver condition as you may not be able to use this medication. This medication is classified as FDA pregnancy category C and it may cause harm to an unborn baby. It is also unknown whether or not the drug is secreted into breast milk, and it is recommended to use extreme caution if you are nursing while using this medication. Also, consult with your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any type of food or medication before using this drug.

Side Effects

• Unfortunately, there are a number of side effects associated with using albendazole. Some of these side effects include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, temporary hair loss, dizziness, headache, unusual weakness, easy bruising and bleeding, sore throat, fever, skin rash, body aches, flu-like symptoms and severe skin blistering. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with this drug, they only affect a small amount of users.

Important Safety Information

• If you are allergic to albendazole or mebendazole, you should not use this medication as it can cause severe internal damage to some users. This medication has been known to lower the body's ability to fight infection and it is recommended that users stay away from anyone with an illness or disease until they have completed treatment. Regular blood tests will be required to ensure that your blood-cell levels remain at a healthy level throughout the course of your treatment, so consult with your doctor about an appropriate schedule.

Use

• Always use albendazole exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages larger than what has been recommended on the label. The medication is administered in tablet form and should be taken with food and a full glass of water. Alebendazole is sometimes used as a cycled medication, meaning that treatment may occur for four weeks followed directly by two weeks of non-treatment. Store this medication away from sources of moisture and at room temperature for the best results.

Warning

• If you experience any of the above side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center at [phone] and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

  Albendazole is meant in the treatment of the above ailments only and should not be used for any other medical purpose unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.