Drug: Albenza

Albenza Pill
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Albenza (generic name: Albendazole) is a commonly prescribed medicine popular for its capacity to cure various parasitic worm infections. Among such are those caused by the tapeworms such as neurocysticercosis (brain, muscles and other tissues infestation) and hydatid disease (liver, lungs, and peritoneum infestations). If you want to know what Albenza really is, how it can be used in relation to dosage prescriptions or its probable unwanted effects then you are at the right place.

What is Albenza?

Albenza is an anthelmintic medicine that stops worms from growing or multiplying inside your body. It has a wide antiparasitic spectrum of action meaning it is preferred by most healthcare providers.

Uses of Albenza

The main uses of Albenza include:

       
  • Neurocysticercosis – occurs when humans become accidental intermediate hosts of T. solium larvae.
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  • Hydatid disease – results from Echinococcus granulosus infestation by dogs.
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  • Infections due to roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, pinworms and threadworms among others.

Recommended Dosage

The dosage will depend on the type and seriousness of infection with Albenza. Always follow your physician’s instructions exactly as they would have been given to you. In treatment of neurocysticercosis or hydatid disease in adults usually the usual dose is 400mg taken twice daily after meals for 8-30 days. However, this may be adjusted according to patient response and condition being treated.

Side Effects of Albenza

However, while it is effective against parasites infections, some people may experience side effects when they use Albenza. The general ones are:

       
  • Pain in the stomach.
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  • Feeling like vomiting or actually throwing up.
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  • A headache.
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  • Dizziness
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  • Temporary hair loss

Although rare, severe side effects can occur and these include:

       
  • Anaphylactic reaction characterized by widespread itching and/or hives; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; rash; difficulty breathing or swallowing;
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    Liver Problems - They may manifest as skin discoloration (jaundice) accompanied by abnormal stool coloration (light colored); clay-colored stools; dark urine;




    Dermatological Disorders - Some patients might develop Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis whose symptoms include painful red/purple rashes that spread and causes peeling off skin.
    In other patients there may be a sudden drop in circulating red or white blood cells or platelets leading to malfunctioning immune system.

Precautions and Warnings

Tell your healthcare provider if you have:

       Kidney disease or are undergoing dialysis; Cirrhosis of the liver/abnormal liver function tests; HIV infection/AIDS or other immune disorders where you take certain drugs e.g. cytotoxic therapy (chemotherapy) for malignancies/lupus erythematous;

Conclusion

Albenza is a strong agent against different parasitic worm infections and guarantees prompt relief. It is important to consider the dosing recommendations, possible side effects and precautions related to this medication in order to make the treatment more manageable. Always ask your health care provider for advice concerning your medical history and current condition.

Remember, sticking to the prescribed use of Albenza with open communication with your doctor will render successful treatment possible. Thus, through suitable means one can overcome such infestations and live a vigorous life.

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