ABSTRACT
This chapter presents classification & mode of action, indications & dermatological uses, formulations/presentation, dosages & suggested regimens, baseline investigations, considerations & monitoring, contraindications, cautions, important drug interactions, adverse effects & their management, use in special situations, and essential patient information of Azole Antihelminths. The antihelminth drugs that are most commonly used in dermatology are the two benzimidazole carbamates, albendazole, which was first approved in 1983, and mebendazole, which was introduced in 1972. Both albendazole and mebendazole have broad-spectrum antihelminth activity. Azole antihelminth drugs are indicated as treatment for the following infestations: Mebendazole: pinworm, roundworm; whipworm and hook worm. Generally, albendazole is the treatment of choice and mebendazole is usually only considered as a second-line drug if albendazole is unavailable. Albendazole and mebendazole have a similar adverse effect profile, with fewer effects reported for mebendazole, probably because of very low absorption. Low concentrations of albendazole and its active metabolite are detectable in breast milk after a single dose of albendazole 400 mg.
