Zentel Tabs & Suspension GSK (Albendazole)

Description

Zentel contains Albendazole, a broad-spectrum benzimidazole anthelmintic manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), available in both 400mg tablet and 200mg/5mL suspension formulations, that works by selectively binding to the beta-tubulin subunits of helminths and inhibiting their polymerization into microtubules, thereby disrupting the parasite’s cytoskeletal structure, impairing glucose uptake, depleting glycogen stores, inhibiting ATP production, and ultimately causing immobilization and death of both adult worms and larvae, with the suspension form offering a convenient and palatable option for pediatric patients and those unable to swallow tablets. It demonstrates the broadest spectrum of anthelmintic activity among the benzimidazoles, being effective against a wide range of nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes including Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm), Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus (hookworms), Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), Strongyloides stercoralis, Taenia species (tapeworms), Echinococcus granulosus (hydatid disease), Neurocysticercosis, and also exhibits activity against Giardia lamblia and certain tissue-invasive parasites. The standard dose for most intestinal helminth infections is a single oral dose of 400mg (tablet) or 10mL suspension for adults and children over 2 years, repeated after 2 weeks for pinworm; for systemic infections such as hydatid disease and neurocysticercosis, prolonged courses of 400mg twice daily in cycles are required under medical supervision with regular liver function and blood count monitoring. Zentel is generally well tolerated for single-dose therapy; however, prolonged use may cause elevated liver enzymes, bone marrow suppression, alopecia, and gastrointestinal disturbances, it should be taken with a fatty meal to enhance bioavailability, and is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy and children under 2 years due to teratogenic potential and insufficient safety data respectively.