Zentel; Albenza (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablets include 400 mg; regimens and presentations differ by parasitic infection and age.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An anthelmintic (anti-worm) medicine used for selected intestinal worm infections and certain tissue parasite infections under medical supervision. The right dosing schedule depends on the parasite, the patient, and local treatment guidelines.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you are seriously allergic to albendazole or related benzimidazole medicines. Pregnancy must be assessed before treatment, especially for planned or prolonged courses.
Important precautions
Longer or systemic treatments may need blood count and liver function monitoring. Your doctor will review liver disease, any possibility of pregnancy, and all other medicines. Do not use without proper diagnosis.
Common side effects
Common effects include stomach pain, nausea, headache, and dizziness. Short courses for intestinal worms are usually well tolerated.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical attention for jaundice, unusual bruising, fever, sore throat, severe rash, or neurological symptoms during prolonged treatment.
Important interactions
Cimetidine, dexamethasone, praziquantel, and other medicines may change albendazole levels. Review all medicines with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Allergy considerations
Avoid if you have a known serious allergy to albendazole or another benzimidazole medicine. Check the specific product ingredients.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Generally avoided
Notes
Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist decides treatment is necessary under applicable guidelines. Pregnancy testing or timing precautions may be required.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Advice depends on the dose and duration. Consult a clinician or pharmacist before using during breastfeeding, especially for prolonged or high-dose treatment.
Children and older adults
Age limits and dosing vary by infection and product. Children should be treated according to paediatric guidelines, not adult directions.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow label instructions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember, unless the next dose is almost due. Skip and continue as normal ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist if you use a special schedule.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison helpline, emergency service, or healthcare professional immediately. Take the medicine pack with you.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Zentel; Albenza (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablets include 400 mg; regimens and presentations differ by parasitic infection and age.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An anthelmintic (anti-worm) medicine used for selected intestinal worm infections and certain tissue parasite infections under medical supervision. The right dosing schedule depends on the parasite, the patient, and local treatment guidelines.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use if you are seriously allergic to albendazole or related benzimidazole medicines. Pregnancy must be assessed before treatment, especially for planned or prolonged courses.
Important precautions
Longer or systemic treatments may need blood count and liver function monitoring. Your doctor will review liver disease, any possibility of pregnancy, and all other medicines. Do not use without proper diagnosis.
Common side effects
Common effects include stomach pain, nausea, headache, and dizziness. Short courses for intestinal worms are usually well tolerated.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical attention for jaundice, unusual bruising, fever, sore throat, severe rash, or neurological symptoms during prolonged treatment.
Important interactions
Cimetidine, dexamethasone, praziquantel, and other medicines may change albendazole levels. Review all medicines with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Allergy considerations
Avoid if you have a known serious allergy to albendazole or another benzimidazole medicine. Check the specific product ingredients.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Generally avoided
Notes
Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist decides treatment is necessary under applicable guidelines. Pregnancy testing or timing precautions may be required.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Advice depends on the dose and duration. Consult a clinician or pharmacist before using during breastfeeding, especially for prolonged or high-dose treatment.
Children and older adults
Age limits and dosing vary by infection and product. Children should be treated according to paediatric guidelines, not adult directions.
Storage
Keep in the original, tightly closed pack away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store out of reach of children. Follow label instructions.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose when you remember, unless the next dose is almost due. Skip and continue as normal ‚ never double up. Ask your pharmacist if you use a special schedule.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison helpline, emergency service, or healthcare professional immediately. Take the medicine pack with you.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
