Albendasool

Albendasool, often a regional spelling variant of albendazole, refers to a broad‑spectrum anthelmintic used to treat helminth infections. Albendazole is a benzimidazole medication that is widely used in human medicine and is available under multiple brand names and formulations.

Mechanism of action: Albendazole inhibits microtubule synthesis by binding to parasite beta-tubulin, disrupting glucose uptake and depleting energy stores. This leads to immobilization and death of the parasite. The drug tends to be more effective against larval and tissue stages of certain helminths than against some adult cestodes.

Indications: It is used for intestinal nematode infections such as ascariasis, enterobiasis (pinworm), hookworm, and trichuriasis. It is also employed for tissue-dwelling parasitic infections including cystic echinococcosis (hydatid disease) and neurocysticercosis caused by Taenia solium. In some settings it may be used off-label for other helminth infections.

Administration and pharmacokinetics: Albendasool is taken orally, with fatty meals to enhance absorption. It is rapidly absorbed and metabolized in the liver to the active sulfoxide metabolite, with further conversion to sulfone; elimination occurs mainly via urine and feces.

Safety and contraindications: Common adverse effects include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Rare but serious events may include hepatotoxicity and cytopenias. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, especially the first trimester, and should be used with caution in liver disease. Drug interactions can alter plasma levels (for example, cimetidine increases exposure; enzyme inducers may reduce it).

Availability: Widely available as generic tablets and suspensions and is recommended in many national and international guidelines for selected helminth infections.