Medicines A-Z
Back to Albendazole Tablet

Albendazole Tablet Uses in Pakistan

Albendazole Tablet (Zentel) is commonly used in Pakistan for intestinal worm infections. This guide covers all approved uses and essential warnings.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated:

Uses

Quick Answer

Albendazole Tablet (Zentel) is used to treat intestinal worm infections including roundworm (ascariasis), hookworm, pinworm/threadworm (enterobiasis), and whipworm (trichuriasis). For neurocysticercosis and hydatid disease, it is used at higher doses under specialist supervision. It is an OTC medicine in Pakistan for common intestinal worms. WARNING: Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy — teratogenic (Category D).

Primary Uses at a Glance

Roundworm

Albendazole kills roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) by binding to tubulin. It is the most common intestinal worm in Pakistan. A single 400mg dose is sufficient in most cases.

400mg single dose — repeat after 2 weeks if needed.

Hookworm (Ankylostomiasis)

Hookworm infection — in which the worm attaches to the intestinal wall and sucks blood — is effectively treated with Albendazole 400mg single dose.

400mg single dose as recommended.

Pinworm / Threadworm (Enterobiasis — Chota Kira)

Pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) — which causes itching in the anal area at night — is treated with a single dose of Albendazole. Treat all family members together and maintain strict hygiene.

400mg single dose; repeat after 2 weeks. Treat all family members too.

Whipworm (Trichuriasis)

Albendazole is an effective anthelmintic for Whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) infection.

As prescribed — single dose or 3-day course depending on infection severity.

Neurocysticercosis (Tapeworm Larvae in Brain/Nervous System)

Neurocysticercosis — in which tapeworm larvae are present in the brain or nervous system — is a serious condition. Higher doses and a longer course are required. It is Rx-only and must be carried out under specialist supervision only.

As prescribed by specialist only — high dose, monitored treatment.

Hydatid Disease (Echinococcosis)

For hydatid cysts (Echinococcus granulosus), Albendazole is used alongside a surgeon or as a surgical alternative. Rx-only, under specialist care.

As prescribed by specialist only.

Other Uses

  • Giardia

Albendazole Tablet Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

Albendazole Tablet contains Albendazole and belongs to the Benzimidazole Anthelmintic class. In Pakistan it is an OTC medicine for common intestinal worm infections.

PREGNANCY WARNING: Albendazole is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy — teratogenic (Category D).

Primary Uses (Mukhya Istemal)

  • Roundworm (Ascariasis)
  • Hookworm — ankylostomiasis
  • Pinworm / Threadworm (Enterobiasis) — chota kira
  • Whipworm (Trichuriasis)
  • Neurocysticercosis (tapeworm larvae) — Rx only, specialist care
  • Hydatid Disease (Echinococcus) — Rx only, specialist care

Who Should Take It (Kin logon ke liye)

  • People with intestinal worm infection (roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, whipworm)
  • For regular deworming
  • Children 2 years and above

When NOT to Use Albendazole (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

  • Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy — teratogenic (Category D)
  • Allergy to Albendazole or benzimidazoles
  • Children under 2 years without a doctor
  • Liver disease without a doctor

Summary

Albendazole Tablet (Zentel) is an effective OTC medicine in Pakistan for intestinal worm infections. Absolutely forbidden in pregnancy. For serious or systemic infections, take only under a doctor's care.

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albendazole kis kaam aata hai?

Albendazole (Zentel) is used to kill intestinal worms — roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, whipworm. It is an OTC medicine in Pakistan. A doctor's prescription is required for serious systemic infections.

Kya Albendazole pinworm ke liye kafi hai?

Yes, a 400mg single dose is sufficient in most pinworm cases. A repeat dose after 2 weeks is also helpful. Treat all family members together and maintain hand-washing habits.

Kya Albendazole neurocysticercosis mein akeli kafi hai?

No. For neurocysticercosis, Albendazole is given at a higher dose with dexamethasone (steroid) under specialist supervision. Do not start it on your own under any circumstances."

Albendazole aur Mebendazole mein farq kya hai?

Both are anthelmintics. Albendazole (400mg single dose) is more broad-spectrum and more common in Pakistan. Mebendazole (Vermox) is also effective. Ask your pharmacist or doctor which is available and best suited.

Kya Albendazole bacchon ke liye safe hai?

It is safe in children 2 years and above — 400mg single dose. Consult a doctor for children under 2 years. Absolutely forbidden in pregnancy."

Sources

  1. DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
  2. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
  3. British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.