Albendazole
Albendazole is a de-worming found in 10 medicines sold in India, such as Zentel, Bandy, Zeebee 400. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
What it is used for
Treats roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and other worm infections.
How it works
A de-worming medicine that starves worms by stopping them absorbing sugar. Used for roundworm, hookworm, pinworm and tapeworm.
How to take it
Usually a single 400 mg dose (children 1 to 2 years 200 mg), chewed or swallowed, often with fatty food. School de-worming programmes repeat it every 6 months.
Common side effects
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
Get medical help straight away if
- Fever, sore throat, yellow skin (with long courses)
- Fits (with brain cysts)
Be careful
Not in early pregnancy.
Other medicines and interactions
Few interactions with single doses.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in the first three months of pregnancy. Single doses considered acceptable while breastfeeding.
Brands of Albendazole (10)
Common questions
What is Albendazole used for?
Treats roundworm, hookworm, tapeworm and other worm infections.
How does Albendazole work?
A de-worming medicine that starves worms by stopping them absorbing sugar. Used for roundworm, hookworm, pinworm and tapeworm.
How should I take Albendazole?
Usually a single 400 mg dose (children 1 to 2 years 200 mg), chewed or swallowed, often with fatty food. School de-worming programmes repeat it every 6 months.
What are the side effects of Albendazole?
Common: Stomach pain, nausea, headache, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Fever, sore throat, yellow skin (with long courses), fits (with brain cysts).
Does Albendazole interact with other medicines?
Few interactions with single doses.
Is Albendazole safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Avoid in the first three months of pregnancy. Single doses considered acceptable while breastfeeding.
Does Albendazole need a prescription in India?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Which brands contain Albendazole?
ABD-400, Abendol, Abz 400, Albol 400, Bandy, Combantrin A 400, Noworm, Wintel 400, Zeebee 400, Zentel.
Sources and further reading
- Albendazole: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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