Flubendazole

Flubendazole is a benzimidazole derivative used as an anthelmintic. It is primarily used to treat parasitic worm infections in both humans and animals.

Chemistry

Flubendazole is a white to off-white powder that is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethylformamide. The chemical name for flubendazole is methyl [5-(2-fluorobenzoyl)-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl]carbamate. Its molecular formula is C_16H_12FN_3O_3.

Pharmacology

Flubendazole works by inhibiting the microtubule function in the parasite's cells, leading to the death of the parasite. It is effective against a wide range of parasites, including nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes.

Medical uses

Flubendazole is used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infections, including ascariasis, hookworm infections, trichuriasis, strongyloidiasis, and enterobiasis. It is also used in veterinary medicine to treat a range of animal parasites.

Side effects

Common side effects of flubendazole include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia.

History

Flubendazole was first synthesized in the 1970s by Janssen Pharmaceutica, a Belgian pharmaceutical company. It has since been used worldwide to treat parasitic worm infections in both humans and animals.

See also

• Benzimidazole
• Anthelmintic
• Parasitic worm