Monograph Details
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Infections & Infestations
> Helmintic infections
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ALBENZA |
| Manufacturer |
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GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals |
| Legal Classification |
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Rx
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| Generic Name |
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Albendazole 200mg; tabs. |
| Indications |
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Parenchymal neurocysticercosis from active lesions due to Taenia solium (pork tapeworm). Cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum due to Echinococcus granulosus (dog tapeworm). |
| Adults and Children |
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See literature. Take with meals. Neurocysticercosis: Give for 8–30 days. Hydatid: Give for 28-day cycle followed by a 14-day free interval, for a total of 3 cycles. <6yrs: not recommended. ≥6yrs (<60kg): 15mg/kg per day in 2 divided doses; max 800mg/day. ≥6yrs (≥60kg): 400mg twice a day. |
| Precautions |
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Examine for retinal lesions first. Monitor blood and hepatic function at beginning of each 28-day cycle and at least every 2 weeks; discontinue if significant increased liver enzymes or if decreases in blood counts occur. Neurocysticercosis: may need corticosteroids during the 1st week of therapy and anticonvulsants. Pregnancy (Cat.C): obtain (–) pregnancy test first. Avoid pregnancy during or for at least 1 month after stopping; discontinue if pregnancy occurs. Nursing mothers. |
| Interactions |
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Potentiated by dexamethasone, praziquantel, cimetidine. Monitor theophylline. |
| Adverse Reactions |
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Abnormal liver function test, abdominal pain, GI upset, headache, dizziness, increased intracranial pressure, meningeal signs, reversible alopecia, fever; rarely: leukopenia, rash, acute renal failure, hematological reactions. |
| How Supplied |
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Tabs—112 |
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