Albendazole + Ivermectin

Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Albendazole and Ivermectin

NA

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA)

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WHO Essential Medicine

YES

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

None

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

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Summary

  • Albendazole is used to treat infections caused by worms, such as tapeworms and roundworms, which are parasites living in the intestines. Ivermectin is used for infections like river blindness, which is caused by a parasitic worm, and scabies, which is a skin condition caused by mites. Both medications are antiparasitic, meaning they help eliminate parasites from the body, but they target different types of parasites.

  • Albendazole works by preventing parasites from absorbing sugar, which they need to survive, leading to their death. Ivermectin paralyzes and kills parasites by interfering with their nervous system, which is the network of nerve cells controlling their movements. Both medications are effective against parasites but use different mechanisms to eliminate them.

  • Albendazole is usually taken as a single dose of 400 milligrams for adults and should be taken with food to improve absorption. Ivermectin is typically taken as a single dose of 150 to 200 micrograms per kilogram of body weight and should be taken on an empty stomach for better effectiveness. Both medications are taken orally, which means by mouth.

  • Albendazole can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which is discomfort in the stomach area. Ivermectin may cause nausea, dizziness, and skin rash, which is an area of irritated or swollen skin. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, which are responses by the immune system to a substance it sees as harmful.

  • Albendazole should not be used by pregnant women as it can harm the unborn baby. Ivermectin should be used with caution in people with liver problems, as it can affect liver function. Both medications can cause dizziness, so it's important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

Indications and Purpose

What is combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin used for?

Albendazole is used to treat infections caused by worms, which are parasites that live in the body. It is effective against a variety of worm infections, including those caused by tapeworms, which are flat, segmented worms that can live in the intestines. Ivermectin is also used to treat parasitic infections, but it is particularly effective against infections caused by roundworms, which are long, cylindrical worms, and certain other parasites like lice and mites. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin are antiparasitic medications, which means they work by killing or stopping the growth of parasites. They are both used to treat different types of parasitic infections, but they target different kinds of parasites. While Albendazole is more effective against tapeworms, Ivermectin is more effective against roundworms and other parasites like lice.

How does combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin work?

Albendazole and Ivermectin are both used to treat infections caused by parasites, which are organisms that live on or in a host organism and get their food from or at the expense of their host. Albendazole works by interfering with the parasites' ability to absorb sugar, which is essential for their survival. This action starves the parasites, leading to their death. It is particularly effective against a wide range of worms, which are elongated, soft-bodied invertebrates. Ivermectin, on the other hand, paralyzes and kills the parasites by binding to their nerve and muscle cells. This action disrupts their normal function, leading to paralysis and death. It is especially effective against certain types of worms and external parasites like lice. Both medicines share the common attribute of targeting parasites, but they do so through different mechanisms. Albendazole starves them, while Ivermectin paralyzes them.

How effective is combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole and Ivermectin are both effective medications used to treat parasitic infections. Albendazole works by preventing parasites from absorbing sugar, which they need to survive. It is particularly effective against a wide range of worms, including tapeworms and roundworms. Ivermectin, on the other hand, paralyzes and kills parasites by interfering with their nervous system. It is commonly used to treat infections like river blindness and scabies. Both medications share the common attribute of being antiparasitic, which means they are used to eliminate parasites from the body. They are both taken orally and are generally well-tolerated with few side effects. However, they are not interchangeable and are prescribed based on the specific type of parasitic infection. The effectiveness of both drugs has been well-documented in clinical studies, showing significant success in reducing parasitic loads and improving patient outcomes.

How does one know if combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin is working?

The benefits of Albendazole and Ivermectin are measured by their effectiveness in treating parasitic infections. Albendazole, which is an antiparasitic medication, is used to treat infections caused by worms such as tapeworms and roundworms. Its benefit is assessed by the reduction or elimination of these parasites from the body. Ivermectin, which is also an antiparasitic, is used to treat infections like river blindness and scabies. Its effectiveness is measured by the relief of symptoms and the reduction of parasite load. Both medicines share the common attribute of being antiparasitic, meaning they work to kill or inhibit the growth of parasites. They are both taken orally and are assessed by their ability to clear the infection and improve symptoms. However, they target different types of parasites and are used for different specific conditions.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat infections caused by worms, is usually taken as a single dose of 400 milligrams for adults. Ivermectin, which is another medicine used to treat parasitic infections, is typically taken as a single dose of 150 to 200 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. Albendazole works by preventing worms from absorbing sugar, which they need to survive. Ivermectin works by paralyzing and killing the parasites. Both medicines are used to treat parasitic infections, but they target different types of parasites. A common attribute of both Albendazole and Ivermectin is that they are both antiparasitic medications, which means they are used to treat infections caused by parasites. They are both taken orally, which means by mouth, and are generally well-tolerated by most people.

How does one take combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, should be taken with food. This helps your body absorb the medicine better. There are no specific food restrictions while taking Albendazole, but following your doctor's advice is always best. Ivermectin, which is another medicine used to treat infections caused by certain parasites, should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. This ensures the medicine works effectively. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin are used to treat parasitic infections, but they have different instructions regarding food. Albendazole is taken with food, while Ivermectin is taken on an empty stomach. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions when taking these medicines.

For how long is combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin taken?

Albendazole is typically used for a short duration, often just a single dose or a few days, depending on the type of parasitic infection being treated. It is an antiparasitic medication which is used to treat infections caused by worms, such as tapeworms and roundworms. Ivermectin is also used for a short period, usually as a single dose or over a few days, and it treats different types of parasitic infections, including those caused by certain worms and external parasites like lice. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin are antiparasitic medications, which means they are used to treat infections caused by parasites. They share the common attribute of being effective against parasitic infections, but they target different types of parasites and may be used for different specific conditions.

How long does it take for combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin to work?

The time it takes for a combination medicine to start working depends on the individual medicines involved. For example, if the combination includes ibuprofen, which is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug, it typically starts working within 20 to 30 minutes. If the combination includes paracetamol, which is another pain reliever, it usually begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes. Both medicines are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which means they share these common attributes. However, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, which is swelling and redness, while paracetamol does not. When combined, these medicines can provide a broader range of relief, addressing both pain and inflammation more effectively. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use.

How does one store combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It does not require refrigeration. Similarly, Ivermectin, which is used to treat various parasitic infections, should also be stored at room temperature and kept away from excessive heat and moisture. It does not need to be refrigerated either. Both medications share the common attribute of being antiparasitic drugs, which means they are used to treat infections caused by parasites. They also share similar storage requirements, as neither requires refrigeration and both should be kept in a dry place at room temperature. However, they are used to treat different types of parasitic infections and have different mechanisms of action, which refers to how they work in the body to eliminate parasites.

Warnings and Precautions

Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole, which is used to treat parasitic infections, can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which refers to discomfort in the stomach area. It may also lead to headaches and dizziness, which is a feeling of being lightheaded or unsteady. A significant adverse effect is liver damage, which means harm to the liver, an organ that helps process nutrients and detoxify the body. Ivermectin, which is also used for parasitic infections, shares some common side effects with Albendazole, such as nausea and dizziness. However, it can also cause skin rash, which is an area of irritated or swollen skin, and itching. A unique adverse effect of Ivermectin is a drop in blood pressure, which means a decrease in the force of blood against artery walls. Both medications can cause allergic reactions, which are responses by the immune system to a substance it sees as harmful.

Can I take combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin with other prescription drugs?

Albendazole, which is used to treat infections caused by worms, can interact with certain medications. It may increase the effects of drugs that are metabolized by the liver, such as phenytoin, which is used to control seizures. Ivermectin, which is also used to treat parasitic infections, can interact with drugs that affect the central nervous system, like benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin can be affected by drugs that alter liver enzymes, which are proteins that help break down substances in the body. This means that drugs like cimetidine, which is used to treat heartburn, can increase the levels of these medications in the blood. It's important to consult a healthcare provider before combining these drugs with others to avoid potential interactions.

Can I take combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin with vitamins or supplements?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, can interact with certain supplements. It is important to avoid grapefruit juice, which can increase the levels of albendazole in the blood, potentially leading to side effects. Ivermectin, which is another medication used to treat parasitic infections, does not have significant interactions with vitamins or supplements. However, both medications share the common attribute of being used to treat parasitic infections, and they should be taken with caution if you are using other medications or supplements. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before combining these medications with any vitamins or supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Can I take combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin if I am pregnant?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. This is because it may harm the developing baby. Ivermectin, which is another medication used to treat various parasitic infections, is also not recommended during pregnancy for similar reasons. Both medications share the common attribute of being antiparasitic, meaning they are used to kill or inhibit the growth of parasites. However, they work in different ways and are used to treat different types of infections. Albendazole is often used for infections like tapeworms, while Ivermectin is used for infections like river blindness and scabies. Despite their differences, the main concern during pregnancy is the potential risk to the developing baby, which is why both are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Can I take combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin while breastfeeding?

Albendazole, which is a medication used to treat parasitic worm infections, has limited data on its safety during breastfeeding. However, it is generally considered to be low risk because only small amounts are expected to pass into breast milk. Ivermectin, which is used to treat various parasitic infections, is also considered to be low risk during breastfeeding. It is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning only small amounts are likely to be present in breast milk. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin share the common attribute of being antiparasitic medications. They are both considered to have low risk for breastfeeding mothers due to minimal transfer into breast milk. However, it is always important for breastfeeding mothers to consult with a healthcare provider before using these medications to ensure safety for both mother and baby.

Who should avoid taking combination of Albendazole and Ivermectin?

Albendazole, which is used to treat infections caused by worms, should not be used by pregnant women as it can harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective birth control during treatment and for a month after. Ivermectin, which is also used to treat parasitic infections, should be used with caution in people with liver problems, as it can affect liver function. Both Albendazole and Ivermectin can cause dizziness, so it's important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Additionally, both medicines can cause allergic reactions, so if you experience symptoms like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately. It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and discuss any other medications you're taking to avoid interactions.