Альбела

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Альбела

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Альбела

Property Description
Active ingredient Albendazole
Forms Tablet, Chewable Tablet, Oral Suspension
Pharmacological class Anthelmintic Agent (Benzimidazole)
General Purpose Neutralizes parasitic worm infections
Origin Synthetic Compound

What Type of Medicine is Альбела (Albendazole)?

Альбела is a specialized pharmaceutical preparation whose active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) is Albendazole, chemically defined as a benzimidazole derivative. It is precisely classified as an anthelmintic agent, meaning it is primarily used to combat infections caused by parasitic worms (helminths).

This medicine belongs to the benzimidazole anthelmintics class, a grouping whose efficacy and inclusion on the Model List of Essential Medicines have been internationally affirmed. Albendazole is clinically recognized for its broad-spectrum efficacy against multiple types of helminths, confirming its critical role in antiparasitic chemotherapy. As a single-ingredient product, Альбела focuses the therapeutic action entirely on the activity of Albendazole.

Is Albendazole a Synthetic Drug and What Forms are Available?

Albendazole is a synthetic compound, originating from chemical synthesis rather than natural extraction. The preparation is consistently formulated for required direct oral administration.

The primary finished dosage forms available for patient use include the solid tablet (often featuring chewable tablet variations to aid administration), and the liquid oral suspension. The availability of both solid and liquid forms, which contain the Albendazole active compound along with standard pharmaceutical excipients, ensures effective delivery across diverse patient needs. The liquid oral suspension form is particularly useful for pediatric or elderly patient groups who may have difficulty swallowing solid medication.

What is the General Purpose of This Anti-Parasitic Agent?

The general purpose of this anti-parasitic agent is to neutralize parasitic worms that infest the human body, providing essential support in managing helminthiasis. This objective is met through a defined biological mechanism where the compound disrupts the essential functions of the target organisms.

This general benefit stems from its capacity to achieve the effective destruction and clearance of the parasitic presence. Its inclusion in major public health protocols confirms that this compound is a reliable tool for resolving infections caused by helminths.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH

What side effects are possible with Альбела?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Albendazole (Альбела) is documented in official government regulatory texts, classifying potential adverse reactions based on their frequency and the physiological system affected.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are formally categorized according to standard regulatory frequency bands:

  • Very Common (≥ 1/10): May include mild to moderate elevations of hepatic enzymes (transaminases) and headache.
  • Common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10): Frequently observed effects are gastrointestinal disturbances (such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting), dizziness, and reversible alopecia (hair thinning).
  • Uncommon: Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus or rash).

Systemic Safety Targets and Serious Reactions

Adverse reactions are grouped into System-Organ Classes, primarily involving Hepatobiliary disorders (liver), Blood and Lymphatic disorders, and the Nervous System.

Serious adverse reactions, though rare, are officially documented. These include severe hematological toxicity (such as aplastic anemia and agranulocytosis) and severe hepatotoxicity (including acute liver failure), predominantly linked to prolonged, high-dose administration. Furthermore, neurological symptoms, like seizures or increased intracranial pressure, can occur in patients with pre-existing neurocysticercosis due to the inflammatory response caused by parasite destruction at treatment initiation.

Population-Specific Constraints

The medicine is formally contraindicated in pregnancy due to regulatory evidence of embryotoxic or teratogenic effects. Caution is officially advised for individuals with pre-existing hepatic impairment as they may face an increased risk of hepatic and hematological adverse events. Due to these risks, regulatory labels require periodic monitoring of hepatic function and blood cell counts during treatment, especially for extended courses.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for Albendazole overdose describes a presentation centered on severe physiological consequences, primarily affecting the hematopoietic and hepatic systems. Documented manifestations from acute overexposure include severe blood dyscrasias, specifically pancytopenia (low red, white, and platelet counts) and neutropenia, alongside significant transaminase elevation, indicating liver injury. Other reported clinical signs may include alopecia, fever, and headache.

Due to the potential for severe outcomes, regulatory guidance mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center if overexposure is suspected. Urgent medical services must be contacted immediately if the affected person displays life-threatening systemic manifestations, such as collapse, a seizure, trouble breathing, or unconsciousness.

Official documents state that no specific antidote is known for Albendazole. Therefore, management of overexposure is limited to symptomatic and supportive treatment. This standard procedure necessitates hospital monitoring, including the serial measurement of blood cell counts and monitoring of hepatic function until the patient's condition stabilizes.

Therapeutic Uses of Альбела

What Альбела Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Альбела (Albendazole) is an anthelmintic agent primarily used to address parasitic worm infections, and is applied in addressing infections where parasitic burden is a factor, contributing to easing the overall symptom load. The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute or disruptive symptom patterns stemming from the parasitic burden.

This medication is relevant across therapeutic domains involving helminthiasis, which include the management of systemic cestode infections (such as Neurocysticercosis and Hydatid Disease), gastrointestinal nematode infections (including roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm), and certain tissue-migrating parasites. Its use is relevant in clinical settings that involve heightened systemic burden and may assist with supporting affected organ function during symptomatic phases. The medication is commonly used for managing the parasitic burden, supporting general well-being during symptomatic phases.

“This medicine is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for severe, systemic infections where parasite larvae have formed cysts in vital organs.”

For common intestinal infections, it is applied in addressing symptomatic clusters that create noticeable physiological strain, particularly gastrointestinal distress and abdominal discomfort. Альбела is primarily considered for patient groups ranging from school-aged children with common helminths to adults with serious tissue-based infections.


Quick Fact: Relief for Parasitic Symptoms
Альбела is commonly used to help with infections that cause neurological or organ-specific functional stress (e.g., in Neurocysticercosis) and gastrointestinal distress, assisting in easing the overall symptom burden.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Rules for Альбела (Albendazole)

Official regulatory documents define strict criteria for using Альбела based on patient population, physiological status, and pre-existing conditions.

Category Regulatory Status Description
Absolute Contraindication Contraindicated Patients with known hypersensitivity to Albendazole, the benzimidazole class of compounds, or any formulation component.
Pregnancy Contraindicated Pregnant women must not use this medicine. Females of childbearing potential are required to obtain a negative pregnancy test before starting therapy and use effective contraception during and for a specified time after treatment.
Age Groups Allowed / Not Established Generally approved for adults and children ge2 years for most indications. Use in infants under 1 year is typically not recommended due to insufficient data.
Organ Function Conditional Use Patients with pre-existing liver disease or elevated hepatic enzymes require caution and close monitoring. Bone marrow suppression risk is higher in these populations, requiring frequent blood cell count monitoring during long-term therapy.
Comorbidities Conditional Use Ocular examination is required before treatment for Neurocysticercosis to assess the risk of retinal damage caused by the inflammatory response to parasite death.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Albendazole (Альбела) is primarily defined by the modification of the active metabolite’s systemic exposure, albendazole sulfoxide.

Pharmacokinetic Exposure Changes

Co-administration with certain medicines may officially alter the plasma concentration of albendazole sulfoxide:

  • Exposure Increase: The glucocorticoid Dexamethasone, the anthelmintic Praziquantel, and the H2 blocker Cimetidine are documented to increase the systemic concentration (or AUC) of the active metabolite.
  • Exposure Decrease: Anticonvulsants, specifically Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, and Primidone, as well as the antiretroviral Ritonavir, may reduce the plasma concentrations, potentially diminishing systemic effectiveness.

Metabolic and Dietary Interactions

Albendazole is documented to influence the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, specifically through the in vitro induction of CYP1A, a pathway relevant to the metabolism of co-administered medicines like Theophylline.

For systemic absorption, the official prescribing information stipulates a critical interaction with food: Albendazole must be administered with a fatty meal to significantly enhance systemic availability. Additionally, Grapefruit juice is documented to increase the plasma levels of albendazole sulfoxide.

Population-Specific Notes

The drug’s metabolism presents a specific consideration for patients with hepatic impairment. Official regulatory documents note an increased risk for bone marrow suppression and hepatotoxicity in this population, which is related to the drug's metabolic pathway.

Mechanism of Action

How Альбела Works

This section focuses exclusively on the pharmacodynamic mechanisms of Albendazole, explaining the sequence from the molecular target to the resulting physiological effects on the parasite.


Targeted Inhibition of Parasitic beta-Tubulin

The active metabolite, Albendazole sulfoxide, acts as an inhibitor by selectively binding to the beta-tubulin subunit of the parasitic worm. This high-affinity interaction prevents the polymerization and assembly of microtubules necessary for the parasite's cellular structure and integrity. This binding results in the collapse and degeneration of the parasite's intestinal and absorptive cells.


Mechanistic Cascade Leading to Energy Deprivation

The structural damage resulting from microtubule inhibition impairs the parasite's ability to absorb nutrients, specifically halting the uptake of glucose. This blockade rapidly depletes the parasite's essential glycogen reserves and prevents the synthesis of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). The resulting metabolic failure and profound energy starvation cause the cessation of vital functions and sustained immobilization.


Constraints on the Mechanism's Speed and Location

The lethal effect is achieved through a multi-step process of structural collapse and metabolic shutdown, meaning the mechanism is not instantaneous. Furthermore, while the action is selective, the subsequent action on larvae in tissues can trigger a significant local inflammatory reaction in the host, a direct physiological consequence of the mechanism's action on the target organism.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Альбела

Альбела (Albendazole) is administered exclusively via the oral route. The medication is available in finished dosage forms including the tablet and oral suspension. For patients who cannot swallow the tablet whole, the official instructions permit the tablet to be crushed or chewed and then swallowed with water.

Official Administration Conditions

All doses of Albendazole must be taken with food. For systemic and tissue-based infections, such as Hydatid Disease and Neurocysticercosis, the dose must be specifically co-administered with a fatty meal to ensure optimal drug absorption and bioavailability.

Labeled Dosing and Duration Patterns

The dosage and duration of use are strictly determined by the type and location of the parasitic infection, often relying on weight for precision. For infections outside the intestines, patients weighing 60 kg or more receive 400 mg twice daily (BID). Patients weighing less than 60 kg receive a weight-based dose of 15 mg/kg/day divided into two daily doses, with a maximum daily limit of 800 mg.

Treatment duration varies significantly:

  • Hydatid Disease: Treatment is structured into 28-day cycles, which are followed by a mandated 14-day drug-free interval, repeated for a total of three cycles.
  • Neurocysticercosis: A continuous course is typically administered for a duration ranging from 8 to 30 days.
  • Intestinal Helminthiasis: Simpler infections often require only a single 400 mg dose, though some protocols, such as for Pinworm, specify repeating the dose once after two weeks.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Альбела


Evidence for Use in Systemic Cestode Infections (e.g., Neurocysticercosis and Hydatid Disease)

Research exploring the use of Альбела for tissue-based parasitic infections, such as Neurocysticercosis (NCC) and Hydatid Disease, was evaluated in various study types, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and long-term observational cohort studies. These studies have primarily focused on conditions where parasite larvae form cysts in or around major organs.

For NCC, research examined objective outcomes measured by brain imaging, specifically the complete disappearance or measurable reduction of viable cysts (lesion resolution). Additionally, researchers monitored changes in neurological symptoms and tracked the frequency of seizures in the observed populations. For Hydatid Disease, studies monitored whether the cysts remained viable and tracked measurable changes in cyst size or volume. The evidence landscape includes a mix of RCTs and long-term data.


Evidence for Use in Gastrointestinal Nematode Infections

The research base for intestinal parasitic worm infections is substantial, consisting primarily of numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and large-scale efficacy surveillance studies. Research examined a clear, short-term goal: whether the parasite eggs were cleared from stool samples, known as the Parasitological Cure Rate, and the percentage decrease in the number of eggs, the Egg Reduction Rate.

For common parasites like roundworm and hookworm, studies reported specific measured cure rates and egg reduction rates in the populations observed. However, studies focusing on the whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) reported findings were mixed, indicating greater variability in the measured cure rates across different trials. Research indicates these measured changes were typically assessed over defined time intervals, usually within a month after the regimen was completed.


What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

Official sources and scientific literature note several areas where further research is needed. Most studies focus on specific, short-term endpoints, meaning the long-term effects are not fully established for many outcomes. Uncertainty persists regarding the optimal treatment regimen for systemic diseases, where questions remain over the ideal dose or length of treatment. Furthermore, the results apply only to the populations studied, meaning research findings reflect group patterns and not individual or personal outcomes.

Key Studies & References

  1. Albendazole versus Praziquantel in the Treatment of Neurocysticercosis: A Meta-analysis of Comparative Trials
  2. Albendazole for the treatment of human echinococcosis: a review of comparative clinical trials
  3. Efficacy of Single-Dose Albendazole for the Treatment of Soil-Transmitted Helminthic Infections among School Children in Rwanda—A Prospective Cohort Study

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Альбела (FAQ)

Q: How quickly is Альбела expected to start working?

According to regulatory documents, the medicine's active substance is rapidly converted into the major active metabolite in the body. This metabolite typically reaches its highest concentration in the bloodstream approximately 2 to 5 hours after a dose. The drug’s action involves a multi-step physiological process, which means the effect is not instantaneous.

Q: How long does the effect of Альбела typically last in the body?

The duration of the active substance's presence is described in official pharmacokinetics data. The active substance's major metabolite is generally described as having a plasma half-life of approximately 7 to 8 hours in the body.

Q: Can people with kidney conditions use Альбела?

Official documents indicate that the clearance of the medicine is unlikely to be altered in patients with existing kidney impairment because the drug's elimination through the kidneys is considered negligible. Regulatory documents indicate that careful monitoring may be necessary for patients with existing renal (kidney) impairment.

Q: What happens if I miss taking a scheduled amount of Альбела?

Official patient instructions indicate that if a scheduled amount is missed, it may be taken as soon as it is remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled amount, in which case the missed amount should be skipped entirely. It is documented that amounts should not be doubled.

Q: What happens if someone accidentally takes too much Альбела?

Information on accidental excessive use is limited in official human case reports. Symptoms observed in pre-clinical animal studies at very high doses included gastrointestinal issues and respiratory distress. General overdose information suggests that if excessive amounts are taken, professional medical consultation is indicated.

Q: Why is Альбела not recommended for people with [Specific Pre-existing Condition]?

Official documents list specific conditions that prevent the medicine’s use (contraindications), such as known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the drug or its class, and pregnancy. Caution is also advised for people with pre-existing liver disease due to an increased risk of specific side effects.

Q: Is there a generic version of Альбела available?

Yes, official resources confirm that a generic form of the active ingredient, Albendazole, is available in the US and internationally. Generic products contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredient, Albendazole, and are approved by regulatory bodies.

Q: Can Альбела affect sleep patterns?

Official safety documents list effects related to the central nervous system, such as dizziness and headache. Specific disturbances to sleep patterns or insomnia are not typically listed among the classified common or very common adverse reactions.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided when using Альбела?

The official prescribing information stipulates that the medicine should be taken with food, and specifically a fatty meal for certain conditions. This condition is related to achieving optimal drug absorption and bioavailability. Grapefruit juice is also documented as an interaction that may increase plasma levels of the active metabolite.

Q: Can Альбела be taken by children or teenagers?

The medicine is generally approved for use in adults and children aged 2 years and older for most of its official indications. Official eligibility rules advise that use in infants under 1 year is typically not recommended due to a lack of sufficient data.

Q: Can Альбела be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Official documents state the medicine is contraindicated (not permitted) during pregnancy due to regulatory evidence of potential harm. For breastfeeding, official guidance is to discontinue nursing during treatment and for a minimum of 5 days following the completion of treatment.

Q: Is it important to take Альбела at the exact same time every day?

Official patient instructions emphasize the importance of following the prescribed dosing schedule and duration for the specific infection being treated. The requirement for taking it with food is noted as an administration condition, but no explicit regulatory guidance mandates the exact same minute of the day.

Q: What kind of studies or research has been done on Альбела?

Official documents describe that the research evidence includes various study types. These include randomized controlled trials (RCTs), long-term observational cohort studies, and large-scale efficacy surveillance studies.

Q: Are there any long-term studies available about the use of Альбела?

Official sources note that most studies focus on specific, short-term endpoints related to the parasite's clearance. This means that the long-term effects are not fully established for many outcomes, and uncertainty remains over long-term optimal treatment regimens.

Q: What are the main things researchers were trying to achieve when developing Альбела?

The general objective described in official documents is the effective neutralization of parasitic worms (helminths) using an agent with a broad spectrum of activity. The research focused on establishing its role in antiparasitic chemotherapy and addressing infections caused by helminths.

Q: Can Альбела cause changes in mood or behavior?

Official safety documents list effects related to the central nervous system, such as dizziness and headache. Specific mood or behavioral changes are not typically listed among the classified adverse reactions in the regulatory documentation.

Q: Is it possible to be allergic to the ingredients in Альбела?

Official regulatory documents list a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the medicine, to the benzimidazole class of compounds, or to any component of the formulation as an absolute contraindication for use.

Q: What is the shelf life of Альбела?

One regulatory document indicates that the shelf life of the tablets is 36 months when stored at the controlled room temperature specified in the official requirements. The medicine must be kept in its original container to protect it from excessive moisture and light.

Q: Does Альбела interact with birth control pills?

While a specific drug-drug interaction with oral contraceptives is not universally listed in official documents, women of childbearing potential are required to use effective contraception during and for a specified time after treatment. This requirement is related to the drug's safety profile during pregnancy.

Q: Is the list of side effects in the leaflet common for everyone?

No, official regulatory lists of side effects are based on the frequency observed in groups of people studied during clinical trials. They reflect statistical likelihoods and do not guarantee a specific individual experience or outcome.

Q: Why do official documents mention that Альбела should be used with caution in certain groups?

Caution is advised in official documents for specific groups due to a higher documented risk of certain side effects. For example, patients with pre-existing liver disease may face an increased risk for hepatic (liver) and hematological (blood) adverse events.

Q: Are there different brand names for the same active ingredient as Альбела?

Yes, the active ingredient in Альбела, Albendazole, is marketed globally under numerous different brand names. However, all approved products containing the same active ingredient must meet the regulatory standards for quality and purity.

Q: Is it normal to have mild stomach upset when first starting Альбела?

Gastrointestinal disturbances, which include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, are listed in official documents as common adverse reactions. A common reaction is one that is frequently observed in clinical populations.

Q: What are the reasons someone might need to stop taking Альбела?

Official safety documentation states that the medicine is typically discontinued if certain serious changes occur. These include clinically significant decreases in blood cell counts or if liver enzymes become significantly elevated above specified limits.

Q: Does the research evidence for Альбела include studies on different age groups?

Yes, research has been conducted on different age groups. This includes studies that have evaluated the use of the medicine in adults, school-aged children, and preschool-aged children for certain indications.

Q: Is Альбела used for both short-term and long-term conditions?

Yes, official prescribing information details its use across a range of durations. This includes use for conditions that require a single dose (short-term) and conditions that require extended, structured cycles of treatment (long-term).

How should Альбела be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Альбела?

The storage and disposal of Альбела must strictly follow the requirements defined in the official regulatory product labeling to maintain drug stability and ensure safety.

Storage Component Official Requirement
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), unless otherwise specified. Do not freeze.
Protection Keep the product in the original container, which protects the medicine from excessive moisture and light.
Accessibility The medicine must be stored securely out of the reach of children and pets.
Disposal Method Dispose of unused or expired Альбела using an authorized drug take-back program or a community disposal location. The product's official labeling must be consulted to confirm if any specific flushing instructions apply; otherwise, do not flush down the toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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