The price of albendazole 400 mg tablets for hospital procurement in Thailand, in Thai Baht, is not publicly available through general sources. Information on drug pricing for hospital procurement is typically negotiated between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare institutions and is not standardized or widely disclosed.
How is Albendazole Used?
Albendazole is an anthelmintic medication used to treat various parasitic worm infections, including neurocysticercosis, echinococcosis, and giardiasis [1]. It works by preventing the worms from absorbing sugar, causing them to die [1].
Who Manufactures Albendazole in Thailand?
Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture or distribute albendazole in Thailand. These may include local Thai pharmaceutical manufacturers as well as international companies with a presence in the country. Specific manufacturers for hospital procurement would depend on the tender processes and agreements in place.
When Might Patent Exclusivity Expire for Albendazole?
Albendazole is a well-established generic medication. Its original patents have long expired, allowing for the production and sale of generic versions by multiple manufacturers [2]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expirations for various drugs, and for older, widely used generics like albendazole, the focus is typically on any new formulations or delivery methods that might seek patent protection [3].
What are the Typical Dosages for Albendazole?
The typical dosage for albendazole depends on the type and severity of the parasitic infection. For intestinal worm infections in adults and children over 2 years old, a common dose is 400 mg taken as a single dose, which may be repeated if necessary [1]. For more complex infections like neurocysticercosis or echinococcosis, higher doses and longer treatment durations are required [1].
What are the Potential Side Effects of Albendazole?
Common side effects of albendazole can include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea [1]. Less common but more serious side effects may include liver problems, allergic reactions, and effects on the blood cells [1]. Patients with existing liver conditions may require closer monitoring during treatment [1].
Are There Alternative Treatments for Worm Infections?
Yes, there are alternative treatments for parasitic worm infections. Depending on the specific worm, other anthelmintic drugs such as mebendazole, praziquantel, and diethylcarbamazine are available [4]. The choice of treatment depends on the identified parasite and the patient's medical history [4].
How is Drug Procurement Handled by Thai Hospitals?
Thai hospitals, like many healthcare institutions globally, procure medications through a tendering process. This involves hospitals or central purchasing bodies issuing tenders for the supply of various drugs. Pharmaceutical companies then submit bids, and contracts are awarded based on factors such as price, quality, and reliability of supply [5]. The Ministry of Public Health and provincial health offices may also play a role in centralizing procurement for public hospitals to achieve better pricing and ensure availability [5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/albendazole/
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5762446/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835668/