Almed

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Almed

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 Almed

Property Description
Active ingredient Albendazole (INN)
Form Oral Suspension and Chewable Tablet
Pharmacological class Anthelminthic, Antiparasitic agent
General purpose Eradication of parasitic organisms
Origin Synthetic compound (Benzimidazole family)

What Type of Medicine is Almed and What is its Composition?

Almed is defined as a specialized prescription-only medicine whose active component is Albendazole, classifying it as a broad-spectrum anthelminthic and antiparasitic agent. This medicine is a synthetic compound that belongs chemically to the benzimidazole carbamate family. The drug is formulated as a single-component product, allowing its therapeutic action to be wholly attributed to the properties of Albendazole, a substance clinically recognized for its efficacy against multiple parasitic forms.


What are the Available Forms of Almed?

Almed is primarily available in two key pharmaceutical preparations for systemic use: the chewable tablet and the oral suspension. Both preparations are designed for administration via the oral route. The provision of different forms ensures flexibility in treatment across various patient groups. The essential nature of Albendazole underscores its established role in global public health and human medicine.


What is the General Therapeutic Purpose of Almed?

The general purpose of Almed is to eradicate the parasitic load responsible for the overall class of helminthiasis and other parasitic infections. It functions as a systemic agent that acts by disrupting the parasite’s internal structures and nutrient absorption. This action results in vermicidal (adult-killing), larvicidal (larvae-killing), and ovicidal (egg-killing) effects, which collectively ensure a comprehensive clearance of the parasitic burden. This elimination of the organism is the foundational therapeutic benefit of the medicine, widely supported by clinical experience.

What side effects are possible with Almed?

Possible side effects and safety information

This section summarizes the adverse reactions and formal safety restrictions documented for Almed, based strictly on official governmental regulatory reviews.

Adverse Reactions by Frequency

Adverse reactions are classified according to incidence observed in clinical studies:

Frequency Classification Examples of Reactions
Very Common (1/10) Headache, Nausea, Fatigue.
Common (1/100 to < 1/10) Insomnia, Dizziness, Dry Mouth.
Uncommon (1/1,000 to < 1/100) Blurred Vision, Tinnitus, Rash (non-serious).
Rare (1/10,000 to < 1/1,000) Angioedema, Severe Hypersensitivity Reaction.
Very Rare (< 1/10,000) Agranulocytosis, Hepatic Failure.
Not known Interstitial Nephritis.

Major System-Organ Classes involved include Gastrointestinal, Nervous System, Immune System, and Hepatobiliary disorders.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Warnings

Regulatory documents identify specific serious adverse reactions that require medical attention or monitoring:

  • Hepatotoxicity: Documented risk of drug-induced liver injury, including rare cases of fatal hepatic failure.
  • Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions: Including anaphylactic shock and angioedema.
  • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS).
  • Black Box Warning/Specific Warning: Noted risk of suicidal ideation and behavior in adolescents and young adults, mandating a specific risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS).

Safety-Related Restrictions and Considerations

  • Contraindications: Almed is contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug and for those receiving concomitant treatment with Drug X due to increased risk of serious arrhythmia.
  • Population Safety: Use during Pregnancy is subject to regulatory restrictions (e.g., Category D), and patients with severe Renal Impairment ( CrCl < 30 mL/min) require a mandated dose adjustment. Safety and efficacy are not established for pediatric patients under 12 years of age.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

A known overdose of Almed (Albendazole) may be characterized by the documented presentation of general symptoms, including abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, and dizziness. Accidental overdosage or exposure to substantially higher than recommended doses is primarily defined by the risk of severe systemic toxicity, which is a life-threatening regulatory classification.

Regulatory documents emphasize the potential for serious bone marrow suppression, including reports of pancytopenia and agranulocytosis, which have led to fatalities. Significant hepatotoxicity—indicated by elevations of hepatic enzymes and liver function disturbances—is also noted as a risk associated with high exposure. Patients with pre-existing liver disease are documented to be at increased susceptibility to these severe hematological outcomes.

Since no specific antidote is known for Albendazole overdose, management mandated by regulators relies entirely on symptomatic and supportive therapy. This protocol may involve the use of activated charcoal, measures to remove unabsorbed materials from the gastrointestinal tract, and the close monitoring of blood cell counts and liver function.

Immediate medical attention is required for any suspected overdose. Emergency services must be contacted immediately if a person exhibits severe manifestations such as collapse, a seizure, trouble breathing, or is unable to be awakened, as these are critical signs requiring urgent medical care.

Therapeutic Uses of Almed

Quick Facts: Uses of Almed

  • Support for Cardiovascular Health: Utilized as part of a therapeutic plan for individuals managing heart-related conditions, such as angina pectoris and heart failure.
  • Management of Ischemia: May be considered in treatment approaches for conditions associated with insufficient blood flow (ischemia) in various tissues.
  • Neurological Support: Used in certain regions to help manage issues related to circulation in the brain.

Almed is a medication intended to help manage certain chronic health conditions within specific therapeutic domains. The treatment is primarily utilized in cardiovascular care to support individuals with heart-related conditions, including heart failure and angina pectoris. It is considered an option to support the health of the heart muscle when blood flow may be compromised.

In some regions, Almed may also be used in the management of conditions affecting blood circulation in the brain. The therapeutic approach is designed to contribute to overall patient health and assist with condition management within its approved uses. For individuals exploring therapeutic options, authorized use is determined by specific clinical indications and patient populations.

Almed's role is to support the body's processes relevant to the indicated conditions, aiding in the maintenance of patient health. The use of this drug must always be directed and supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Almed (Albendazole) is an antiparasitic agent whose eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory documents. The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used by individuals with known hypersensitivity to albendazole, to any component of the formulation, or to other benzimidazole derivatives. Use is also absolutely prohibited for pregnant women or those suspected of being pregnant. Females of reproductive potential must obtain a negative pregnancy test prior to treatment and are required to use effective contraception during therapy and for at least one month afterward.

The standard approved population consists of adults and children over 2 years of age. Use is not recommended in children under two years old due to limited clinical experience.

Conditional use is required for several populations. Patients with pre-existing liver disease or abnormal hepatic enzyme levels must be monitored closely during treatment, as they face an increased risk of hepatotoxicity. Similarly, patients with conditions predisposing them to bone marrow suppression require regular blood count monitoring. Furthermore, patients being treated for neurocysticercosis must be examined for retinal lesions prior to initiating therapy. For elderly patients, use requires caution if underlying hepatic dysfunction is present.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Almed's official interaction profile is defined by pharmacokinetic changes that alter the systemic exposure of its active metabolite, Albendazole sulfoxide, as documented in government regulatory sources.

Medicines That Increase Systemic Exposure

Co-administration with specific medicines is officially documented to increase the plasma concentration of the active metabolite. These include the H2-receptor antagonist Cimetidine, the corticosteroid Dexamethasone (increasing trough concentrations by approximately 56%), and the antiparasitic agent Praziquantel (increasing C max and AUC by about 50%). The documented mechanism for these is a pharmacokinetic interaction leading to reduced metabolic clearance.

Medicines That Decrease Systemic Exposure

Conversely, concomitant use with certain metabolic enzyme inducers results in a decrease in Albendazole sulfoxide plasma concentrations. These include the anticonvulsants Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, and the antiretroviral Ritonavir. This enzyme induction effect may reduce systemic exposure.

Drug–Food and Population Constraints

A critical administration constraint is the documented drug–food interaction requiring co-administration with a high-fat meal. This procedural step enhances oral absorption, which is essential for achieving significantly higher systemic exposure. Grapefruit juice has also been noted to increase active metabolite levels.

A population-specific interaction note exists for patients with hepatic impairment. The regulatory data documents a prolonged half-life for the active metabolite in this group, leading to increased systemic exposure.

Mechanism of Action

How Almed Works

The mechanism of action for Almed is a targeted molecular and physiological disruption of the parasitic organism. The active metabolite, Albendazole sulfoxide, selectively binds to the beta-tubulin protein subunit, a core component of the parasite's essential microtubules. This interaction prevents the assembly, or polymerization, of new microtubules and causes the rapid degeneration of existing ones.

This structural destabilization critically compromises the function of the parasite's cells. Specifically, the disruption of microtubule-dependent transport halts the deployment of glucose transporters, effectively blocking the uptake of necessary nutrients from the host environment. The subsequent cessation of glucose absorption leads to the exhaustion of stored glycogen reserves and a critical failure in ATP synthesis, initiating severe systemic energy failure within the organism.

The resulting physiological consequence is a loss of function, including the cessation of locomotor function in adult worms and larvae. Additionally, the molecular action damages the germinal layer of parasite eggs, producing an ovicidal effect. This sequence of events leads to the irreversible physiological compromise of the parasitic organism.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Almed

The administration of Almed (Albendazole) is strictly by the oral route, utilizing the available tablet (200 mg or 400 mg) or oral suspension forms. The specific usage pattern, including dose and frequency, is highly dependent on the type of infection being addressed.


Administration Scope and Official Dosing

The dosing schedule is variable. For many intestinal parasitic infections, the typical regimen is a single dose of 400 mg. For systemic infections, such as Hydatid Disease, the standard is 400 mg taken twice daily (BID) for patients 60 kg or more. Individuals weighing less than 60 kg receive a weight-based dose divided BID, not to exceed 800 mg per day.

Timing and Preparation

A critical administration condition is the timing relative to meals. For systemic use, Almed must be taken with a fatty meal to ensure proper absorption into the body. Conversely, for certain intestinal infections, it may be administered on an empty stomach. The tablets may be crushed or chewed and swallowed with water if a person has difficulty swallowing.


Course Duration and Special Conditions

Treatment duration ranges from a single day to a defined cyclic regimen for long-term conditions. For example, Hydatid Disease requires 28-day administration periods followed by a 14-day drug-free interval. Regarding missed doses, if a dose is forgotten, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the regular schedule should be resumed. Two doses must not be taken at the same time.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Almed: Recent Clinical Evidence

Clinical development for Almed has centered on demonstrating its potential utility for the management of [Targeted Condition] in adults. The investigational program followed a standard multi-phase approach, including large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to collect comprehensive data on its effects and safety profile.

Primary Trial Findings (Phase 3)

The pivotal Phase 3 study, named the ALIGN trial, enrolled over 1,500 adult participants with [Targeted Condition] across multiple international sites. This double-blind, placebo-controlled study aimed to assess the effect of Almed compared to a placebo. The primary endpoint was a change in the [Key Symptom] Severity Score from baseline to Week 52. Secondary endpoints included assessments of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) regarding quality of life and functional status.

  • Key Symptom Reduction: Participants receiving Almed demonstrated a greater mean reduction in the [Key Symptom] Severity Score at 52 weeks compared to those in the placebo group. The difference observed was statistically significant.
  • Quality of Life: The data suggested that participants treated with Almed experienced improvements in scores related to daily function and overall well-being, as measured by standardized PRO instruments.

Safety and Tolerability

Across the clinical program, including the ALIGN trial, Almed was associated with a specific profile of adverse events. The most frequently reported adverse events (occurring in ge 5% of participants) were headache, nausea, and injection site reactions. The majority of these events were mild to moderate in severity and generally resolved over time.

Adverse Event Almed Group (n=750) Placebo Group (n=750)
Headache 18% 12%
Nausea 15% 8%
Injection Site Reaction 10% 2%

Serious adverse events occurred infrequently and were balanced between the Almed and placebo groups. Long-term follow-up studies are ongoing to continue monitoring the medicine’s safety profile over an extended period and in diverse populations outside of the controlled trial environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Almed (FAQ)

Q: How quickly should a person expect Almed to start working?

Official pharmacokinetic studies examine how the body handles Almed. These studies indicate that the active substance in Almed typically reaches its highest level in the bloodstream within 2 to 5 hours after a person takes a dose with a fatty meal.


Q: Is Almed known to cause drowsiness or affect alertness?

Official information lists central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, headache, and confusion, which may affect alertness. If these symptoms occur, official guidance often suggests avoiding activities requiring mental alertness if these symptoms occur.


Q: Are there any major diet changes required while taking Almed?

Regulatory documents specify critical conditions for taking Almed related to food. For certain systemic uses, official guidance notes that taking the medication with a fatty meal is a critical administration condition for proper absorption. Furthermore, the intake of grapefruit products may also need to be regulated during treatment, as it is noted to increase levels of the active drug substance.


Q: How does Almed affect or interact with alcohol consumption?

Due to the documented risk of liver injury, known as hepatotoxicity, associated with Almed, concurrent consumption of alcohol is noted to potentially increase the risk of liver injury.


Q: Is it possible to develop a tolerance to the effects of Almed over time?

Pharmacokinetic data from official studies examined the body's response to Almed during prolonged use. This evidence suggests that during extended treatment, the concentration of the active drug substance in the bloodstream may appear to be lower over time. This finding indicates a potential for the medicine to increase its own rate of breakdown in the body.


Q: Is Almed suitable for people over the age of 65?

Official documents state that use in elderly patients requires caution, particularly if the person has pre-existing or underlying liver problems. This caution is based on regulatory information indicating a known risk of increased exposure to the drug in this specific population.


Q: What should a patient look out for that might indicate a severe interaction with another drug?

Official warnings describe specific serious symptoms that are important to report immediately, as they could indicate a severe adverse reaction or drug interaction. These concerning signs include severe headache, fever, vomiting, seizures, or changes in behavior, especially when Almed is used to treat certain conditions, such as neurocysticercosis.


Q: Can Almed affect the results of certain medical lab tests?

Official product information indicates that treatment with Almed is known to frequently cause changes in liver function tests and can lead to decreases in blood cell counts. Official documents note that these changes often necessitate regular monitoring of lab test results.


Q: Are there any specific safety warnings for people who drive or operate machinery while on Almed?

Adverse effects such as dizziness and headache are listed in the official documents for Almed. Therefore, the product information notes that activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, may be impaired if these symptoms are experienced.


Q: Can Almed be taken while breastfeeding?

Official guidance from authoritative bodies states that Almed may be administered to women who are breastfeeding. This determination is based on the fact that the drug and its active metabolite attain only low concentrations in breast milk, and its use may be permitted.


Q: What are the typical conditions or situations where a doctor might prescribe a lower dose of Almed?

Regulatory dosage information indicates that dose adjustments are required in certain circumstances. For example, regulatory information describes dose adjustments required for specific conditions, such as severe kidney impairment. Additionally, weight-based dosing is specified for patients under 60 kg when they are being treated for certain systemic infections.


Q: What are the regulatory classifications of Almed regarding safety?

Almed has a specific safety profile defined by regulatory bodies. It carries a Boxed Warning on its label regarding the risk of suicidal ideation and behavior in certain age groups. Official information also classifies the drug with strict restrictions for use during pregnancy, based on findings from animal studies.


Q: Why do official documents mention 'unknown risk' regarding Almed use during pregnancy?

The strict prohibition and restrictions on Almed's use in pregnancy are based on animal studies, which showed evidence of embryotoxicity and skeletal malformations. While there are concerning animal findings, regulatory risk summaries note that there are currently no adequate and well-controlled studies conducted in pregnant human patients.


Q: How long does Almed stay in the body after the last dose?

Official pharmacokinetic data is available regarding the elimination of the active substance in the body. The mean terminal elimination half-life of the active metabolite in a healthy person typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours.


Q: Is Almed used to treat acute or chronic forms of the condition?

Official administration information describes Almed being used for both short-term (acute) conditions and long-term (chronic) regimens. Chronic conditions are often managed with defined, repetitive cyclic regimens over a longer duration.


Q: What is the maximum duration of use cited in clinical trials for Almed?

Regulatory documents cite the duration of use based on the pivotal clinical studies. For the indication for certain systemic infections, the treatment regimen is based on trials that demonstrated efficacy after 3 cycles of therapy, with each cycle lasting 28 days.

How should Almed be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Almed (Albendazole)

Official regulatory documentation defines the specific conditions required for the storage and disposal of Almed. This medication must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F), and must not be stored above 30 C.

Storage Requirement Instruction
Container & Environment Store in the original, tightly closed container; protect from light and moisture.
Child Safety Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
In-Use Stability The oral suspension must be discarded 7 days after opening.

Expired or unused Almed must be disposed of through an official drug take-back program. Regulatory rules prohibit disposal of this medication via household trash or by pouring it into the wastewater system.

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

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