Albendazole: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Albendazole is a broad deworming medicine for common intestinal worms. It belongs to the Antiparasitic / anthelmintic group. These treat worm infestations and parasitic infections.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antiparasitic / anthelmintic
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Roundworm, hookworm and whipworm
Threadworm (pinworm)
Some tapeworm infections, including cysts (specialist use)
Mass deworming programmes

Common brand names

India: Zentel, Bandy, Albezol
Worldwide: Albenza

Common side effects

Stomach pain
Nausea
Headache
Dizziness

Before taking it — precautions

Avoid in pregnancy, especially early; women should not become pregnant during longer courses
Longer courses need blood counts and liver tests
Tell your doctor about liver disease

When to see a doctor urgently

Fever, sore throat or unusual bruising (low blood counts)
Yellow eyes or skin
Seizures or severe headache during treatment for brain cysts (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of albendazole depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Should the whole family be treated?

For threadworm, household members are often treated together, plus good hygiene, to stop reinfection.

Do I take it with food?

For intestinal worms it can be taken with or without food. For tissue infections, a fatty meal helps absorption; follow your doctor.

Can children take albendazole?

Yes, it is widely used in children over a certain age, including in school deworming programmes.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.