Albendazole is a drug used to treat worm infestations. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and marketed under the names Zentel, Albenza and Eskazole. This drug is effective against nematodes such as whipworms, roundworms and pinworms, and flatworms such as flukes and tapeworms. Albendazole's side effects can affect several body systems and may make dosage adjustments or discontinuation of therapy necessary if these effects worsen or persist.
Skin Effects
This drug can cause hypersensitivity that results in a rash and itching. Reversible alopecia, which is hair loss that can be reversed once the drug is stopped, has also been reported with the use of albendazole. Stevens-Johnson syndrome was reported as a post-marketing side effect of this drug. This medical condition is a skin disorder caused by an allergic reaction to a drug.
Nervous System Changes
Side effects impacting the central nervous system have been reported with the use of this drug. Headache was one of the most common side effects of albendazole, with Drugs.com reporting that 11 percent of clinical trial participants experienced headaches. This drug can also cause dizziness, increased intracranial pressure and vertigo.
Liver Effects
This drug has been known to cause liver function test results to be abnormal. As a result, the manufacturer recommends that liver function tests and blood cell counts are performed at the beginning of each therapy cycle and every two weeks during the course of treatment. If liver enzymes show a significant increase, this drug should be discontinued until the enzyme levels have returned to their normal levels. If therapy is started a second time, liver function tests should be performed frequently.
Kidney Effects
Albendazole has been reported to lead to acute renal failure. Patients who have diminished kidney function should not use this drug because it can lead to a further decline in kidney function. Kidney function tests should be performed after this therapy is started to determine if the drug is causing kidney function to decrease.
Blood and Lymph Effects
This drug can affect the blood and lymph of the body. Its use may lead to a reduced white blood cell count (leukopenia), decreased counts of red and white blood cells and platelets (pancytopenia), low blood platelet levels (thrombocytopenia), aplastic anemia, and failure of the bone marrow to produce enough white blood cells (granulocytopenia).
Gastrointestinal Effects
This drug can affect the digestive system, so it should be taken with food to minimize adverse effects. The gastrointestinal side effects associated with this drug include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. If these side effects are persistent or become worse, therapy with this drug may be discontinued.
General Effects
This drug has side effects that cannot be classified by body system and affect the entire body. Albendazole is associated with fever, which should be reported to a physician if it persists.
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