Name: Micaela Andrea C.

Cielo Date:
Year & Section: BS Nursing 2A
Drug Study: Albendazole
Brand Name: Albenza
Generic Name: Albendazole
Indication: Hydatid Disease Albendazole is used for the treatment of cystic hydatid disease of
the liver, lung, and peritoneum, caused by dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus) larvae.
Neurocysticercosis Albendazole is used to treat parenchymal neurocysticercosis due to
active lesion caused by pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) larvae.
Off-label use Albendazole is also effective in treating infections caused by other parasites
including Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm), Trichinella spiralis (pork worm), Trichuris
trichiura(whipworm), Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Strongyloides
stercoralis (threadworm), Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm), Ancylostoma
duodenale (hookworm), and Necator americanus(hookworm).
Contraindication: Contraindicated with allergy to albendazole, pregnancy (embryotoxic and
teratogenic; avoid use, especially during first trimester). Use cautiously with lactation.
Dosage: The dosing of albendazole depends on which parasitic infection is being treated. When
treating young children, tablets may be crushed or chewed and swallowed with a drink of water.
Patients are advised to take albendazole with food.
Availability: Tablets: 200 mg
Route: Oral
Mechanism of Action: Albendazole irreversibly blocks glucose uptake by susceptible
helminthes, depleting glycogen stores needed for survival and reproduction of helminths, causing
death.
Drug Interaction: Grapefruit juice may increase in blood levels of albendazole when
administered concurrently. Fosphenytoin (Cerebyx) and phenytoin (Dilantin) decrease levels of
albendazole by increasing its breakdown.
Side effects: GI: transient abdominal pain, diarrhea Other: fever
Adverse Effects: Allergic reaction, Seizures.
Nursing Responsibilities:
 Tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
 Assess for pregnancy, lactation and allergy to mebendazole.
 Assess for temperature, bowel sounds and output.
 Culture for ova and parasites.
 Administer drug with food; tablets may be chewed, swallowed whole, or crushed and
missed with food.
 Arrange for second course of treatment if patient is not cured 3 weeks after treatment.