Albendazole for treatment of giardiasis
Albendazole (Albenza) comes in tablet form and is available only by prescription. Albendazole may be as effective as metronidazole for the treatment of giardiasis but with fewer side effects in children ages 2 to 12 years.1 Most reports indicate a cure rate of up to 75% after 10 days of treatment with albendazole.2
Side effects are not common but may include:
- Fever.
- Rash or itching.
- Sore throat.
- Unusual tiredness or weakness (with high doses).
- Dizziness or headache.
- Belly pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
Albendazole should not be taken by pregnant women or those with liver function problems. It is best to take albendazole with food.
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS | Last Updated: October 16, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease | |
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