Zentel 200mg/5ml Suspension

Albendazole is an anthelmintic (anti-worm) medicine. It is used to kill certain worm (parasite) infections.

It is used to treat:

• neurocysticercosis, an infection with pork tapeworm larvae in the muscles, brain or eyes
• hydatid disease (dog tapeworm cysts), usually alongside surgery
• other worm infections, when a doctor decides it is suitable

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

• Take it with food.
• If you cannot swallow tablets whole, they can be crushed or chewed and taken with water.
• Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.

For brain infections, your doctor may prescribe other medicines alongside it to reduce swelling or prevent seizures.

Common side effects include:

• stomach pain, feeling sick or being sick
• headache or dizziness
• temporary hair loss

Contact a doctor straight away if you have:

• sore throat, fever, chills or other signs of infection
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness, weakness, pale skin or shortness of breath
• a rash or hives
• seizures, severe headache, extreme tiredness or changes in behaviour (when treating a brain infection)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• are allergic to albendazole or mebendazole
• have liver disease
• take cimetidine or any other medicines or supplements
• are planning surgery or dental work

Your doctor may check your eyes before treatment and do blood tests during treatment.

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), in the original container and out of the reach of children.

Pregnancy: albendazole may harm an unborn baby. A pregnancy test is usually needed first. Use reliable contraception during treatment and for 3 days after the last dose, and tell your doctor straight away if you become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: talk to your doctor before taking it if you are breastfeeding.