A patient is being treated with albendazole (Albenza) for neurocysticercosis caused by larval forms of the pork tapeworm. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching about the drug regimen?
a. "I may need to take this medication for a month before the infestation is cleared."
b. "I should take this drug with a fatty meal to improve absorption."
c. "I will need to have liver function tests before and during treatment."
d. "I will take the drug in 3 consecutive cycles of 28 days, followed by 14 drug-free days."
ANS: D
Albendazole is given in consecutive cycles when dosing is done for cystic hydatid disease, not neurocysticercosis. For treatment of neurocysticercosis, patients generally take albendazole for 8 to 30 days. Albendazole can cause mild to moderate liver impairment, so patients should have liver function testing before and during treatment. The drug should be taken with a high-fat meal to improve absorption.
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