What is albendazole?

Albendazole is an anthelmintic (an-thel-MIN-tik) or anti-worm medication. It prevents newly hatched insect larvae (worms) from growing or multiplying in your body.

Albendazole is used to treat certain infections caused by worms such as pork tapeworm and dog tapeworm.

Albendazole may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Side Effect of Albendazole?

headache, neck stiffness, increased sensitivity to light, confusion;
fever;
nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
abnormal liver function tests;
dizziness, spinning sensation; or
temporary hair loss.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to albendazole, or to similar drugs such as mebendazole.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

eye problems (especially a problem with your retina);

liver disease; or

bone marrow suppression.

Albendazole may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine and for at least 3 days after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

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Albendazole
Generic name: albendazole [ al-BEN-da-zole ]
Brand name: Albenza
Dosage form: oral tablet (200 mg)
Drug class: Anthelmintics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

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Interactions
FAQ

How should I take albendazole?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take with food.

If you cannot swallow the tablet whole, you may crush or chew it and swallow with a full glass of water.

You may be given other medicines to prevent certain side effects of albendazole, or certain effects that can result when the parasites die within your body.

Albendazole doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.

Use albendazole for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Albendazole will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.

Albendazole can increase your risk of bleeding or infection. You will need frequent medical tests.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking albendazole?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

What other drugs will affect albendazole?

Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medications at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which may increase side effects or make the medications less effective.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

dexamethasone;

praziquantel; or

cimetidine.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect albendazole, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.