Albendazole 400mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- Severe stomach pain that does not go away
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Fever with sore throat, mouth ulcers, or unusual tiredness
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe headache with vision changes or confusion
- Seizures or uncontrolled movements
- Decreased urine output or blood in urine
- A painful rash with blisters or peeling skin
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is cantel 400mg tablet used for?
Albendazole 400mg tablet is an oral anthelmintic medicine used to treat intestinal worm infections such as roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, and whipworm. It works by stopping the worms from absorbing glucose, which leads to their death. It is usually taken as a single dose for common infections, but the dose and duration depend on the type of infection and your doctor's advice.
- Generic Name: Albendazole
- Manufacturer: Zydus Healthcare Limited
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 cantel 400mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा अल्बेंडाजोल 400 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग पेट के कीड़ों के संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह गोलपेट के कीड़े, हुकवर्म, पिनवर्म और व्हिपवर्म जैसे कीड़ों को मारने में मदद करती है। यह कीड़ों को ग्लूकोज लेने से रोकती है, जिससे वे मर जाते हैं और शरीर से बाहर निकल जाते हैं। यह दवा टेपवर्म और कुछ ऊतकों में रहने वाले परजीवियों के इलाज में भी इस्तेमाल की जा सकती है, लेकिन इसके लिए डॉक्टर की सलाह जरूरी है। यह दवा एंटीबायोटिक नहीं है और बैक्टीरिया या वायरस से होने वाले संक्रमण का इलाज नहीं करती। इसे डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और पूरा कोर्स करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा को लेने पर कुछ लोगों को पेट दर्द, जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, दस्त, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और लीवर एंजाइम में अस्थायी बढ़ोतरी जैसी समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्की होती हैं और खुद ठीक हो जाती हैं। कभी-कभी गंभीर एलर्जी, लीवर में सूजन, सफेद रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी और बाल झड़ने जैसी समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। बहुत कम मामलों में त्वचा पर गंभीर रैश या अस्थि मज्जा की समस्या हो सकती है। अगर आंखों या त्वचा का रंग पीला पड़े, गहरे रंग का पेशाब आए, पेट में तेज दर्द हो, बुखार या गले में खराश हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, अपने मन से मात्रा न बढ़ाएं और न घटाएं। गोली को एक गिलास पानी के साथ निगलें और अगर पेट खराब लगे तो भोजन के साथ लें। अगर डॉक्टर ने कई दिनों का कोर्स बताया है, तो पूरा कोर्स करें, चाहे पहली खुराक के बाद ही आराम महसूस हो। हाथों को साबुन से धोएं, खासकर शौचालय जाने के बाद और खाना खाने से पहले। नाखून छोटे और साफ रखें। फल और सब्जियों को अच्छी तरह धोकर खाएं और साफ पानी पिएं। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो दवा लेने से पहले डॉक्टर को बताएं। अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को जानकारी दें। यह दवा दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें।
💊 cantel 400mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Intestinal roundworm infection (ascariasis)","description":"This medicine is used to treat infections caused by Ascaris lumbricoides, a common roundworm that lives in the small intestine.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hookworm infection","description":"It is effective against hookworms such as Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, which can cause anemia and nutritional problems.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pinworm infection (enterobiasis)","description":"This medicine is used to treat Enterobius vermicularis infection, which causes itching around the anal area, especially at night.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Whipworm infection (trichuriasis)","description":"It is used to treat Trichuris trichiura infection, which may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and poor growth in children.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Strongyloidiasis","description":"This medicine may be used to treat Strongyloides stercoralis infection, although the treatment course and monitoring may differ from intestinal worm infections.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Hydatid disease (echinococcosis)","description":"It is used as part of treatment for hydatid cysts caused by Echinococcus species, often along with a procedure or surgery.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Neurocysticercosis","description":"This medicine is used in the treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by Taenia solium larvae in the brain, usually together with other medicines and specialist care.","evidence":"Established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cutaneous larva migrans","description":"This medicine is sometimes used to treat creeping eruption caused by hookworm larvae in the skin, although this is not a primary approved use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Trichinellosis","description":"It may be used in some cases of Trichinella infection, but evidence is limited and treatment should be guided by a specialist.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Giardiasis","description":"This medicine has been studied for Giardia infection, but it is not a first-line treatment and evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Intestinal worm infections
Also treats: Hydatid disease, Neurocysticercosis, Strongyloidiasis, Cutaneous larva migrans
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Albendazole |
| Brand Name | Albenza |
| Manufacturer | Zydus Healthcare Limited |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI INFECTIVES |
| Action Class | Antiprotozoal agents |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C. Keep it in the original container, tightly closed, and protect it from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is usually 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer. Always check the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date, as it may not work properly and could be harmful. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization includes albendazole in its list of essential medicines and supports its use in deworming programs for certain intestinal worm infections. However, treatment should always be based on a doctor's advice and local guidelines. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research has published guidance on the management of parasitic infections, and albendazole is included as a treatment option for several intestinal worm infections. Always follow the advice of your doctor and local health authorities. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine belongs to the benzimidazole class of anthelmintics. It works by binding to a protein called beta-tubulin in susceptible parasites, which blocks the formation of microtubules. Microtubules are needed for many important functions in the parasite cell, including the movement of nutrients and the division of cells. When this medicine blocks microtubule formation, the parasite cannot take up glucose properly, its energy stores are used up, and the parasite eventually dies. Because this medicine acts on the parasite's internal structures rather than on the human body's nerves or muscles, it is generally well tolerated by people when used at recommended doses.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take cantel 400mg tablet
Strength: This medicine is supplied as an immediate-release tablet containing 400mg of albendazole. It is taken by mouth.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine for common intestinal worm infections is a single 400mg tablet taken by mouth. For some infections, such as strongyloidiasis or tissue infections, the dose may be repeated once daily for several days or longer. The exact dose and duration depend on the type of infection, your body weight, and your liver and kidney function. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Always follow your doctor's instructions and do not change the dose on your own. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. In general, this medicine may be used in children for certain worm infections, but the dose depends on the child's age, weight, and the type of infection. It is not usually given to children under 1 year of age unless a doctor decides it is needed. Do not give this medicine to a child without a doctor's advice. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults can usually take this medicine at the same dose as younger adults. However, because liver and kidney function may be reduced with age, your doctor may monitor you more closely for side effects. If you have other medical conditions or take other medicines, your doctor will decide the best dose for you. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine is partly removed by the kidneys. In people with severe kidney disease, the medicine may stay in the body longer than usual. Your doctor may monitor you more closely or adjust the dose if needed. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not change your dose without medical advice. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine is mainly broken down in the liver. People with liver disease may have higher levels of the medicine in their body and a higher risk of side effects. Your doctor may check your liver with blood tests and may adjust the dose or choose a different treatment. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not take this medicine for a long time without your doctor's supervision if you have liver problems. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose of this medicine is not established from the available information for all uses. For common intestinal worm infections, a single 400mg dose is usual. For tissue infections, higher total daily doses may be used under specialist supervision. Do not take more than your doctor has prescribed. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of cantel 400mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ritonavir | Major | |
| Cimetidine | Major | |
| Dexamethasone | Major | |
| Praziquantel | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Theophylline | Moderate | |
| Carbamazepine | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Ritonavir
- Cimetidine
- Dexamethasone
- Praziquantel
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Theophylline
- Carbamazepine
- Phenytoin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Both alcohol and this medicine are processed by the liver, and drinking alcohol may increase the risk of liver problems. Alcohol can also worsen stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness that this medicine may cause. If you drink alcohol regularly, talk to your doctor before starting this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy to albendazole or any other ingredient in this medicine","Pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless clearly needed and advised by a doctor","Breastfeeding, unless advised by a doctor","Serious liver disease, unless the doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk","Use in children under 1 year of age, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor","Use for eye infections caused by worms, because this medicine may not work well and may cause harm"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or a blood disorder before taking this medicine.","Your doctor may check your liver and blood counts before and during treatment, especially for long courses.","This medicine may cause dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machines until you know how it affects you.","Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy without first talking to your doctor.","If you are breastfeeding, ask your doctor whether it is safe to continue while taking this medicine.","Take this medicine with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.","Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better after the first dose.","Wash your hands often and keep your surroundings clean to prevent reinfection with worms.","Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.","Keep this medicine out of reach of children."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk in amounts that could harm a nursing infant. Because of this, breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before taking this medicine. In some cases, a doctor may advise temporarily stopping breastfeeding or using a different medicine. Do not start or stop breastfeeding on your own without medical advice.
💊 Overdose Management
If you take too much of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital right away. Take the medicine pack with you so the medical team knows what you have taken. Overdose may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and in serious cases, liver problems or low blood cell counts. Treatment is supportive and may include close monitoring, blood tests, and measures to remove the medicine from the body if needed. Do not try to make yourself vomit unless a healthcare professional tells you to.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure what to do, call your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and do not take more or less than the recommended dose. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, and take it with food if it upsets your stomach. Complete the full course even if you feel better after the first dose. Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet to reduce the risk of reinfection. Keep your fingernails short and clean, and avoid scratching the anal area. Wash fruits and vegetables well and drink safe, clean water. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before taking this medicine. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially medicines for seizures, blood thinners, and medicines that affect the liver. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults can usually take this medicine at the same dose as younger adults. However, because liver and kidney function may be reduced with age, your doctor may monitor you more closely for side effects. If you have other medical conditions or take other medicines, your doctor will decide the best dose for you. Report any unusual symptoms promptly.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Your doctor may advise you to complete treatment before trying to conceive. Use effective contraception during treatment if there is a chance you could become pregnant.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, tell your doctor before taking this medicine. This medicine is usually not a problem after surgery, but your doctor will consider your overall health, liver function, and other medicines you may be taking. Do not start this medicine without your doctor's advice after surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine is not known to cause problems during dental procedures. However, tell your dentist about all medicines you are taking, including this one. If you need dental work while taking this medicine, there is usually no need to stop it, but your dentist may consult your doctor if you have other health conditions.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine may cause dizziness in some people. If you feel dizzy, avoid strenuous exercise, driving, or operating heavy machines until you feel normal. Otherwise, light to moderate exercise is generally safe. Drink plenty of water during exercise to stay hydrated.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness, headache, or stomach upset in some people. If you feel dizzy or unwell, avoid driving, operating heavy machines, or doing tasks that need full attention. Most people can continue their normal work and daily activities, but listen to your body and rest if needed. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash. Also stop and seek medical help if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, unusual bleeding or bruising, or signs of infection such as fever and sore throat. Do not stop the medicine early without talking to your doctor, because the infection may not be fully treated.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of liver problems and low blood cell counts. Your doctor may check your liver and blood counts regularly if you need to take it for more than a few days. Some people may experience hair loss, which is usually reversible after treatment ends. Long-term use should only be done under close medical supervision. If you notice any unusual symptoms, report them to your doctor promptly.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Another anthelmintic medicine that can treat some intestinal worm infections.
Evidence: Well-establishedUsed for tapeworm infections and some other parasitic infections.
Evidence: Well-establishedUsed for certain parasitic infections, including strongyloidiasis and scabies.
Evidence: EstablishedHand washing, clean water, and proper sanitation help prevent worm infections.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with most vaccines. However, if you are taking this medicine for a long time and have a weakened immune system, talk to your doctor before receiving live vaccines. There is no need to delay routine vaccinations unless your doctor advises otherwise.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified on the label
✅ DO
Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children and pets
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Keep a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to show it to customs or a doctor. Store the tablets in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same intervals as prescribed, but adjust the timing gradually if your doctor advises. Do not leave the medicine in a hot car or in checked luggage where it may be exposed to extreme temperatures. If you need a refill while traveling, visit a local pharmacy with your prescription.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: For common intestinal worm infections, this medicine usually starts working within a few days. You may see worms in your stool after 1 to 3 days. For tissue infections, it may take weeks or months of treatment to see full effects.
A: Yes, it is best to take this medicine with food, especially a fatty meal, because food increases its absorption and reduces stomach upset.
A: This medicine may be used in children for certain worm infections, but the dose depends on the child's age, weight, and the type of infection. It is not usually given to children under 1 year unless a doctor prescribes it.
A: This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless a doctor decides it is clearly needed. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is almost time, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it may increase the risk of liver problems and stomach upset.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for cantel 400mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
wozole 400mg tabletWockhardt Ltd ₹2.16 4.9% COSTLIER
-
albact 400mg tabletGlenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2.25 9.2% COSTLIER
-
vormout 400mg tabletCadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2.34 13.6% COSTLIER
-
worid 400mg tabletAlembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2.46 19.4% COSTLIER
-
emanthal 400mg tabletTorrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹2.98 44.7% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Albendazole can be taken by anyone without a prescription.
Fact: Albendazole should be taken only when prescribed by a doctor, because the type of worm infection and the correct dose need to be confirmed. - Myth: Albendazole works immediately after one dose.
Fact: It may take several days for the worms to be cleared from the body, and some infections need repeated doses. - Myth: Albendazole is safe to take during pregnancy.
Fact: Albendazole is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless a doctor decides it is clearly needed. - Myth: Albendazole can be used to treat any stomach problem.
Fact: Albendazole only treats certain worm infections. It does not treat bacterial, viral, or other causes of stomach problems. - Myth: Once you take albendazole, you cannot get worms again.
Fact: Reinfection is possible if hygiene measures are not followed. Wash your hands and keep your surroundings clean.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Albendazole 400mg tablet (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Zentel 400mg tablet
- Bandy 400mg tablet
- Albenza 400mg tablet