Zentel (Albendazole) 400mg

Written by Manoj Kumar, M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

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Manoj Kumar, M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Clinical Pharmacologist and Drug Safety Expert

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What is Zentel 400 mg?

Zentel 400 mg is an anthelmintic (anti-worm) medicine used to treat a wide range of parasitic worm infections. Its active ingredient, Albendazole, kills worms and stops them from multiplying inside the body.

Zentel is commonly prescribed for infections caused by pinworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. By eliminating the parasites, it helps relieve pain, inflammation, and stomach discomfort caused by worm infestations.

Always use Zentel 400 mg only under a doctor’s supervision, in the exact dose and duration prescribed.

What Are the Medical Uses of Zentel 400 mg (Albendazole)?

Doctors prescribe Zentel 400 mg to treat several parasitic infections, including:

• Hydatid disease (caused by tapeworm cysts)

• Neurocysticercosis (caused by pork tapeworm larvae in the brain)

• Trichuriasis (whipworm infection)

• Giardiasis (intestinal infection)

• Cutaneous larva migrans (skin disease from hookworm larvae)

• Strongyloidiasis (threadworm infection)

• Enterobiasis (pinworm infection)

• Filariasis (roundworm infection)

• Ascariasis (roundworm infection)

Zentel 400 mg Tablets are manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (GSK).

How Does Zentel 400 mg Work?

Once ingested, Albendazole Medicine is converted into its active sulfoxide form. It works by:

• Disrupting the parasites’ microtubules (cell structures).

• Preventing them from absorbing nutrients.

• Depleting their energy reserves and halting metabolism.

• Causing their eventual death and expulsion from the body.

This mechanism prevents the infection from spreading and relieves symptoms effectively.

How to Take Zentel 400 mg

• Take Zentel 400 mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew.

• Take with food, preferably a fatty meal, to improve absorption.

• If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s nearly time for your next dose. Never double the dose.

• In case of overdose, contact your doctor immediately.

Possible Side Effects of Zentel 400 mg

Some people may experience side effects while using Zentel 400 mg:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Abdominal pain or stomach discomfort

• Fever or chills

• Sore throat and hoarseness

• Weight loss or loss of appetite

• Dizziness or drowsiness

If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor right away.

Drug Interactions with Zentel 400 mg

Zentel may interact with certain other medicines, such as:

• Cimetidine and antacids (used for stomach acidity)

• Anti-seizure drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and phenobarbital

• Praziquantel (another anti-worm medicine)

• Ritonavir (HIV treatment)

• Dexamethasone (a corticosteroid used to suppress immunity)

Precautions & Safety Advice

• Pregnancy: Zentel 400 mg is unsafe in pregnancy. Always consult your doctor.

• Allergies: Avoid if you are allergic to Albendazole or benzimidazole drugs (e.g., Mebendazole Medicine).

• Drowsiness: May cause dizziness, drowsiness, or vision problems—avoid driving.

• Liver conditions: If you have liver disease, inform your doctor. Monitoring and dose adjustment may be required.

• Jaundice symptoms: Yellowing of skin/eyes, itching, or pale stools require immediate medical attention.

• Avoid grapefruit juice: It may increase Albendazole side effects.

How to Store Zentel 400 mg

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

• Always keep tablets in their original packaging until use.