Albenza (Albendazole)

Do’s

• Take Albenza exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, with meals and usually 1-2 times daily.
• Crush or chew the tablets if you have trouble swallowing them, but take them with water.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully, especially regarding treatment cycles (e.g., taking medication for 28 days, then stopping for 2 weeks).
• Take the medication regularly and at the same time(s) each day.
• Continue taking Albenza for the full prescribed amount, even if symptoms disappear.
• Take other medications prescribed by your healthcare provider alongside Albenza.
• Discuss grapefruit consumption with your healthcare provider before having it with Albenza.

Don'ts

• Stop taking Albenza early without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Skip doses of Albenza.
• Take more Albenza than prescribed.
• Take Albenza with grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider says it's safe.
• Hesitate to tell your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or persists.

Common side effects of Albenza may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness
• Temporary hair loss
• Fever
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Neck stiffness
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Confusion
• Spinning sensation

Serious side effects of Albenza are rare but may include:

• Severe headaches
• Increased pressure inside the skull
• Seizures
• Fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, feeling light-headed
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Temporary hair loss

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Albenza,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to Albendazole, other benzimidazole medications (like mebendazole), or any ingredients in Albendazole.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially liver disease, bile duct problems, or blood/bone marrow disorders before using Albendazole.

Albendazole can cause liver problems. Limit alcohol consumption while using this medication to reduce the risk.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) before undergoing surgery.

Albendazole can harm an unborn baby. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not use Albendazole. Discuss birth control methods with your healthcare provider before using this medication and for 3 days after the last dose.

Albendazole passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using this medication.