Arteben-Albendazole 400 mg Caplet Capsule (Albendazole) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Albendazole is an antiparasitic (anti-worm) medicine that works by killing worms and their eggs in your body, preventing them from growing and multiplying.

What is it used for?

Stomach wormsroundwormhookwormwhipwormthreadworm (pin worm)tapewormand other intestinal worm infections

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Worms & Parasites Bacterial Infections

How it works

Binds to β-tubulin in helminth microtubules, disrupting their polymerization and causing immobilization and death of susceptible worms. Additionally inhibits glucose uptake and ATP production in parasites, leading to energy depletion and paralysis.

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.

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How to take this drug

For most common worm infections, adults take one 400 mg tablet as a single dose — just one tablet and you're done. For more serious worm infections like tapeworm, your doctor may ask you to take 400 mg twice daily for up to 28 days. It is best to take albendazole with food, especially fatty food, as this helps your body absorb the medicine better. Chew the tablet or swallow it whole with water. Popular brands in Nigeria include Bazole, Avrozole, Aphazole, Alberol, and Arteben.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you are on a multi-day course and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.

What to watch out for

Buy only from reputable pharmacies — avoid buying deworming tablets from roadside sellers or unregistered shops, as fake drugs are common. If your doctor prescribes a multi-day course, complete the full course even if you feel better. It is a good practice to deworm the whole family at the same time to prevent re-infection, especially for children.

Common Side Effects

Stomach pain or discomfort
headache
nausea or feeling like vomiting
dizziness
and sometimes mild diarrhea — these usually go away on their own

Serious Side Effects

Severe skin rash
itching
or swelling of the face and throat (this could be a serious allergic reaction — go to the hospital immediately). Unusual tiredness
yellowing of the eyes or skin
or dark-coloured urine (this may mean liver problems). High fever or sore throat that won't go away (could mean your blood cells are affected).

Drug Interactions

Cimetidine (used for ulcer) can increase albendazole levels in your blood, which may increase side effects. Dexamethasone and praziquantel (another dewormer) can also increase albendazole levels. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking albendazole as it can stress your liver.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Albendazole is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can harm the unborn baby, and women should confirm they are not pregnant before taking it; breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before use.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to albendazole or other benzimidazole medicines
pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant
children under 1 year old without a doctor's guidance
and people with liver problems should consult their doctor before taking this drug.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Keep the medicine in its original pack and away from moisture. Always keep out of the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Arteben-Albendazole 400 mg Caplet