What is Albid Suspension and how does it work?
Albid Suspension is an anthelmintic, or anti-worm, medication belonging to the benzimidazole class. Its active ingredient, Albendazole, is effective against a broad range of parasitic worms and protozoa. It functions by preventing the parasites from absorbing glucose, their main energy source, causing them to lose energy, become immobilized, and die. The dead parasites are then naturally removed from the body.
Primary uses of Albid Suspension
Albid Suspension is prescribed for various intestinal and systemic parasitic infections. Treatment type and duration depend on the specific infection. Common uses include:
- Neurocysticercosis: An infection of the central nervous system by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), which can cause seizures and neurological issues.
- Cystic Hydatid Disease: Caused by the larval stage of the dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus), leading to cysts in organs.
- Intestinal Worm Infections: Effective against roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and pinworms.
- Giardiasis: Used in children over 2 for this intestinal infection.
- Cutaneous Larva Migrans: Treats skin lesions caused by hookworm larvae.
Administration guidelines
Dosing and duration vary by infection and must be followed exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Use the provided measuring device, not a household spoon. Albid Suspension is taken orally, often with a fatty meal to improve absorption. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
Potential side effects and risks
Albid Suspension can cause side effects, ranging from mild to serious.
Common side effects:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Temporary hair loss
Serious or less common side effects and warnings:
- Liver Problems: Can elevate liver enzymes; liver function should be monitored.
- Blood Disorders: May decrease blood cell counts, increasing infection and bleeding risk; blood tests may be needed.
- Allergic Reactions: Seek immediate medical attention for rash, hives, or breathing difficulty.
- Neurological Effects: Treating neurocysticercosis can cause inflammation, seizures, headaches, or increased intracranial pressure. Steroids might be used concurrently.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Use effective contraception during and for a month after treatment. Avoid breastfeeding during and for 5 days post-treatment.
Comparison with other anthelmintic medications
Different anthelmintics target specific parasites. Albid Suspension (Albendazole) is broad-spectrum, but a doctor will select the best treatment for a specific infection. A comparison of Albid Suspension with Mebendazole and Ivermectin is available on DrOracle.ai.
Conclusion
Albid Suspension, containing albendazole, is an effective prescription medication for treating various parasitic worm infections. It targets both intestinal and systemic parasites, useful for conditions like neurocysticercosis and cystic hydatid disease. However, it requires medical supervision due to potential side effects like liver and blood count issues. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis, dosing, and monitoring. Complete the full prescribed course to eradicate the infection and prevent recurrence. For more details, consult reliable sources like Mayo Clinic.
