ABD 400 (Albendazole 400mg)

ABD 400 (Albendazole 400mg) is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication formulated to treat and prevent a variety of parasitic worm infections. Each tablet contains 400mg of Albendazole, a benzimidazole compound that inhibits parasite glucose uptake, effectively disrupting their metabolism and leading to their eradication from the body. Widely used in clinical and community health settings, ABD 400 addresses both intestinal and systemic parasitic infections, making it a cornerstone in the management of conditions caused by roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and other helminths.

Indications and Uses:
ABD 400 is indicated for the treatment of:

• Intestinal Infections: Including ascariasis (roundworm), hookworm infections, enterobiasis (pinworm), strongyloidiasis, and trichuriasis (whipworm).
• Systemic Infections: Neurocysticercosis (caused by pork tapeworm larvae in the brain) and hydatid disease (caused by dog tapeworm affecting organs like the liver or lungs).
• Preventive Use: Employed in deworming programs to reduce parasitic prevalence in high-risk populations, such as children in endemic areas or travelers to tropical regions.

Mechanism of Action:
Albendazole, the active ingredient in ABD 400 (Albendazole 400mg), works by binding to the beta-tubulin of parasites, inhibiting microtubule polymerization. This disrupts glucose absorption, depleting the parasite’s energy reserves and leading to its immobilization and death. The medication is effective against both adult worms and larval stages, ensuring comprehensive parasite elimination.

Dosage and Administration:

• Intestinal Parasitic Infections: Typically, a single 400mg dose for adults and children over 2 years, repeated after 2–3 weeks if necessary.
• Neurocysticercosis: 400mg twice daily with food for 8–30 days, often with corticosteroids to manage inflammation.
• Hydatid Disease: 400mg twice daily for 28-day cycles, with rest periods, as prescribed.
• Administration Tips: Take with a fatty meal to enhance absorption. Tablets may be swallowed whole, chewed, or crushed and mixed with water for ease of use, especially in children.
• Note: Dosage depends on body weight, infection type, and severity. Always follow a healthcare provider’s guidance.

Safety and Precautions:

• Contraindications: Not recommended for pregnant women or those planning pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during and for 3 days post-treatment.
• Special Populations: Use with caution in patients with liver impairment, as Albendazole is metabolized in the liver. Monitoring of liver function and blood counts is advised during prolonged therapy.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, headache, and dizziness. Rare but serious effects may include liver dysfunction or bone marrow suppression, requiring medical attention.
• Drug Interactions: Consult a doctor if taking medications like cimetidine, praziquantel, or corticosteroids, as they may alter Albendazole’s efficacy or metabolism.

Storage and Availability:

• Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
• Available in blister packs for convenient dosing and storage, typically as a single tablet or multi-tablet packs, depending on treatment requirements.

Public Health Role:
ABD 400 is a critical tool in global health initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of parasitic infections, particularly in low-resource settings. It is included in the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines and is widely used in mass drug administration programs to improve community health outcomes, reduce malnutrition, and enhance quality of life in affected populations.

Why ABD 400?
ABD 400 combines efficacy, versatility, and accessibility, making it a trusted choice for healthcare providers and patients alike. Its broad-spectrum action ensures reliable treatment across various parasitic infections, while its ease of administration supports compliance in diverse populations. Whether for individual treatment or large-scale deworming efforts, ABD 400 delivers consistent results in combating parasitic diseases.