Things you need to know about deworming medicine (Albendazole)

In our country, especially in homes with young children, the word "worm problem" is something we often hear. When we experience symptoms like stomach ache, loss of appetite, or weight loss, we often think that it might be a worm disease. So, at times like this, a doctor often recommends Albendazole. But, how many of us really know about this pill after just taking it? Are we really aware of the things to be careful about while using it, and what the possible side effects are? Today, we will talk about everything about Albendazole, as simply as if your own friend were telling you.

What exactly is Albendazole?

Simply put, Albendazole is a medication that is used to treat infections caused by parasites. It is specifically used to kill parasites that live inside the body, such as tapeworms. This medication works by killing the parasites.

But there is something very important that we all need to remember here.

So, it's not a good idea to just buy this medicine from a pharmacy without consulting a doctor.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before giving you Albendazole, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. This medicine can interact with some health conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.

• Liver disease: If you have any pre-existing liver problems, you should tell us about it. This medicine is cleared from the body through the liver. If the liver is weak, the effect of the medicine may be altered.
• Biliary tract blockage: Tell your doctor if you have any blockages in your gallbladder or bile ducts, such as stones.
• Low blood cell count: If you have had previous reports showing low white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in your blood, please let us know.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: This is very important. Taking this medicine during pregnancy can cause serious harm to the baby. So if you are trying to get pregnant, or if you suspect you may be pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor.
• Breastfeeding: If you are a breastfeeding mother, talk to your doctor about whether this medicine will pass to your baby through breast milk.
• Allergic reactions: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies, not just to Albendazole, but also to any other medicine, food, dyes, or preservatives.

When you tell your doctor these things without hiding them, he can choose the most suitable and safest treatment for you.

The correct way to use the medicine

Okay, now let's see how exactly to use this medicine.

1. You have to take it by mouth: This comes as a pill, so you have to take it by mouth.

2. Take with food: It is best to take this medicine with a meal . This will help the body absorb it better and reduce stomach upset.

3. Chew or swallow whole: You can swallow this tablet whole with water. Or, you can chew it well and swallow it. Do it according to your convenience.

4. Take it on time: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day as much as possible. This will help keep the concentration of the medicine in your blood at the same level.

5. Complete the course: This is a mistake that many people make. They stop taking the medicine when the illness subsides a little and the symptoms disappear. Don't do that. No matter how many days the doctor tells you to take the medicine, you need to take the medicine for the entire period. Otherwise, the infection may not be completely cured and may recur.

What if you give it to small children?

This medicine is sometimes given to small children. But it should only be given under the supervision of a doctor. The exact dose should be given. Don't make rash decisions about it.

What if you accidentally take too much medicine? (Overdose)

Imagine that you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose of medicine. If that happens, don't delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

We all forget to take our medicine sometimes. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take double doses to make up for a missed dose.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

When you take Albendazole, it may interact with other medications you are taking. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes vitamins, traditional medicines, and Ayurvedic medicines.

The following medications may interact with Albendazole.

This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, if you smoke, or if you drink alcohol.

Let's also know about the side effects? (Side Effects)

Like any medicine, Albendazole can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. Some side effects are serious and require immediate medical attention. Some are normal and go away in a few days. Let's break them down.

How do you store and dispose of medication safely?

• Keep away from children and pets: This is very important. Always keep medication out of the reach of small children and household pets, such as in a locked cupboard.
• Store at room temperature: Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
• Expired Medicines: Do not use medicines that have passed the expiration date on the medicine package. Throw them away.

How do you get rid of unused medicine?

It's not a good idea to just throw expired or unwanted medications in the trash or flush them down the toilet. It can be harmful to the environment. Instead, you can do something like this:

1. Take the pills out of the packet.

2. Mix them well with something like used tea powder, coffee powder, or soil.

3. Place this mixture in a resealable polythene bag or plastic container and seal it well.

4. Then throw it in the trash.

If you are unsure about this, ask your doctor for advice.