Zentel tablet is primarily used to treat parasitic worm infections. It belongs to a class of drugs known as an anthelmintic drug. Following are some common and off-label uses of Zentel Tablet:
Common Uses of Zentel Tablet
- Treatment of Intestinal Worm Infections: Zentel tablet is used to treat several types of parasitic infections in the intestines, such as hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm infections.
- Treatment of Hydatid Disease: Zentel tablet is also used to treat hydatid disease, which is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of tapeworms. This condition affects the liver, lungs, and other organs, and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Treatment of Neurocysticercosis: Zentel tablet is used to treat neurocysticercosis, a parasitic infection that affects the brain and spinal cord. This condition is caused by the larvae of a type of tapeworm.
- Treatment of Filariasis: Zentel tablet is used to treat filariasis, a parasitic infection caused by thread-like worms that live in the lymphatic system.
- Treatment of Strongyloidiasis: Zentel tablets can also be used to treat Strongyloidiasis, which is a parasitic infection caused by a type of roundworm.
Off-label Uses of Zentel Tablet
- Cystic Echinococcosis: Zentel tablet is sometimes used off-label for the treatment of cystic echinococcosis, a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of the Echinococcus tapeworm. It may be used before or after surgical removal of the cysts to help prevent recurrence.
- Capillariasis: Zentel tablet has shown effectiveness against Capillaria philippinensis, a parasitic worm that causes capillariasis. However, this use is considered off-label.
What is Zentel?
Zentel is one of the leading brands of Albendazole, manufactured and marketed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).
Zentel Alternatives : Other Similar Brands
The following are some alternative brands of Zentel and their manufacturers.
- Bendazol : Stanley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Zepar : Shaigan Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Qentel : Wilshire Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Aliz : Glitz Pharma, Pakistan.
- Larex : Standpharm Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
- Albenza : Paramount Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
- Alovac : Siza International (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Bendol : Pharmawise Labs (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Randazol : Regent Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.
- Vapalac : Valor Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
Zentel : Available Formulations and Strengths
Presently, Zentel is available in Tablet and Suspension Forms.
Zentel Tablet : 200mg strength.
Zentel Suspension : 200mg/5ml strength.
Who Should Not Use Zentel?
Zentel is generally a safe and effective medication but there are certain contraindications and precautions that should be considered before taking this medication.
Hypersensitivity: Zentel is contraindicated in individuals who are allergic or hypersensitive to the drug or any of its components.
Liver Disease: Individuals with liver disease should use Zentel with caution, as this medication may cause liver damage. So, it is recommended to monitor the LFT (Liver Function Tests) while taking Zentel.
Retinal Disorders: Zentel should be used with caution in individuals with retinal disorders, as the medication may cause vision problems.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Zentel should not be used during pregnancy, as it may cause harm to the developing fetus. It is also not recommended for use during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
What is the Recommended Daily Dosage of Zentel?
Here are some general guidelines for the recommended daily dose of Zentel:
Zentel Dose for Intestinal Worm Infections: 2 tablets or 400mg once daily for 3 days.
Zentel Dose for Hydatid Disease: 2 tablets or 400mg twice daily with meals for 28 days.
Zentel Dose for Neurocysticercosis: The usual dose is 15mg/kg/day, divided into two doses, for 8-30 days.
Zentel Dose for Filariasis: 2 tablets or 400mg once daily for 21 days.
Zentel Dose for Strongyloidiasis: 2 tablets or 400mg once daily for 3-7 days. In some cases, a second course of treatment may be necessary after 3-4 weeks to ensure complete eradication of the infection.
How Zentel Works?
Zentel works by interfering with the metabolism and microtubule formation of parasitic worms, ultimately leading to their death.
Inhibition of microtubule formation: Zentel binds to the beta-tubulin subunits of the microtubules in the cells of the parasite. This binding disrupts the normal function of the microtubules, which are essential for the survival and reproduction of the parasite. This action certainly kills the parasite.
Inhibition of glucose uptake: Zentel also inhibits the uptake of glucose by the parasites, which is a crucial source of energy for their survival. By inhibiting glucose uptake, Zentel disrupts the metabolic processes of the parasite, which further contributes to its death.
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