Overview and product snapshot

Active ingredient: Albendazole

What it treats: Albendazole is an anthelmintic used to treat certain parasitic worm infections. In the USA it is FDA approved for hydatid disease (Echinococcus) and neurocysticercosis (Taenia solium larvae). Clinicians may also use it for intestinal nematodes such as hookworm, roundworm, whipworm, and pinworm.

How it works: Albendazole disrupts parasite microtubule formation, starving and killing susceptible worms.

Available strengths and forms in the USA: tablets 200 mg (typical single dose for many intestinal infections is 400 mg achieved by taking two 200 mg tablets). Some pharmacies may also offer oral suspension formulations.

How to take Albendazole and dosing directions

Always follow your prescriber's instructions. The information below is a general guide and does not replace medical advice.

  • Take albendazole with food, preferably a fatty meal, to improve absorption.
  • If you cannot swallow tablets, they may be crushed or chewed and swallowed with a small amount of water or soft food.
  • If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.
  • For long courses (for example hydatid disease), your clinician may order lab tests such as liver function and blood counts before starting and at intervals during therapy.

Commonly used adult regimens (examples only):

  • Intestinal nematodes such as ascariasis, hookworm, trichuriasis: 400 mg once (single dose). Some cases may need repeat dosing after 2 to 3 weeks based on local guidance.
  • Pinworm: 400 mg once, then a repeat dose in 2 weeks, and treat household contacts as advised by a clinician.
  • Neurocysticercosis: 400 mg twice daily for 8 to 30 days with specialist oversight, often with corticosteroids and antiepileptics as indicated.
  • Hydatid disease: 400 mg twice daily in cycles (typically 28 days on therapy followed by 14 days off), for multiple cycles under specialist care.

Ask your health care provider any questions about how to use albendazole safely.

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Storage

Store at room temperature 68 to 77 F (20 to 25 C) in a tightly closed container. Protect from excessive heat, moisture, and light. Do not keep in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Important safety information and interactions

Do not use albendazole if

  • You have had an allergic reaction to albendazole or other benzimidazoles.
  • You are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant, unless your specialist determines the benefits outweigh risks for life-threatening infections.

Tell your prescriber before using if any apply

  • Liver disease, abnormal liver tests, or a history of hepatitis.
  • Eye disease, especially retinal lesions.
  • Bone marrow suppression, low white blood cells, or low platelets.
  • Any prescription, OTC, or herbal products you use regularly.
  • Allergies to medicines, foods, or dyes.

Drug interactions to know

  • Cimetidine, dexamethasone, or praziquantel can raise albendazole levels and increase side effect risk.
  • Theophylline levels and side effects may increase when taken with albendazole.
  • This is not a full list. Confirm all medicines with your pharmacist or clinician.

Additional cautions

  • Dizziness may occur. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how you respond.
  • Albendazole can rarely suppress the immune system. Tell your clinician promptly if you develop fever, chills, sore throat, rash, or signs of infection.
  • If you could become pregnant, obtain a negative pregnancy test before starting and use effective contraception during therapy and for at least 1 month after the last dose.
  • Children under 1 year: safety data are limited. Use only with pediatric guidance.
  • Breastfeeding: It is not known whether albendazole is excreted in human milk. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your clinician.

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Possible side effects

Many people have no or only mild side effects.

Common, often mild

  • Stomach pain or discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Serious - seek medical attention right away

  • Severe allergic reaction: hives, rash, swelling of lips or tongue, trouble breathing
  • Dark urine, yellowing of eyes or skin, severe fatigue (possible liver injury)
  • Fever, chills, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising (possible low blood counts)
  • Seizures, severe or persistent headache or dizziness, vision changes
  • Red, swollen, peeling, or blistered skin
  • Marked decrease in urination

This is not a complete list. Report unexpected symptoms to your health care provider.

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Alternatives and similar medicines

Depending on the parasite, clinicians may consider other agents. Do not switch without professional guidance.

  • Pyrantel pamoate: OTC in the USA for pinworm; less effective for some other nematodes than benzimidazoles.
  • Ivermectin: Often preferred for strongyloidiasis and some other parasites.
  • Mebendazole: Another benzimidazole; used for a range of intestinal nematodes. In the USA, mebendazole is prescription only.
  • Praziquantel: Drug of choice for many tapeworms and schistosomiasis; distinct mechanism from albendazole.
  • Nitazoxanide: Used for protozoal infections such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium; not a direct substitute for all helminths.

Choice of therapy varies by parasite species, disease severity, pregnancy status, comorbidities, and local resistance patterns.

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Approximate prices in the USA (USD)

These are rough cash price ranges without insurance and can vary widely by pharmacy, location, and available generics. Use pharmacy discount programs or coupons when appropriate.

  • Albendazole generic tablets 200 mg: about $30 to $150 per tablet. A typical 400 mg dose (two tablets) may cost $60 to $300. Prolonged regimens for hydatid disease can be expensive.
  • Mebendazole: often $15 to $200 per dose depending on brand, strength, and pharmacy pricing.
  • Praziquantel 600 mg tablet: roughly $6 to $25 per tablet; total regimen cost depends on patient weight and indication.
  • Ivermectin 3 mg tablet: commonly $3 to $7 per tablet; total cost depends on weight based dosing and indication.
  • Pyrantel pamoate (OTC liquids or tablets): frequently $10 to $20 for a single treatment pack.

Insurance coverage, patient assistance programs, and public health clinics may reduce out-of-pocket costs. Always confirm current pricing with your pharmacy.

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