Sintel

Indications

Sintel is recommended for the treatment of a variety of intestinal and systemic parasitic infestations, including:

• Hookworm (Ancylostoma, Necator)
• Roundworm (Ascaris)
• Threadworm (Enterobius)
• Whipworm (Trichuris)
• Strongyloides
• Tapeworm
• Opisthorchi
• Hydatid disease

Always use under the guidance of a registered healthcare professional.

Description

Sintel is an effective benzimidazole-based anthelmintic medication, primarily used against a broad spectrum of nematodes and certain cestodes. Its active ingredient, albendazole, is highly effective in treating intestinal parasitic infections and hydatid disease. Sintel works by inhibiting tubulin polymerization, causing parasite immobilization and eventual death. The drug is known for its vermicidal, ovicidal, and larvicidal properties.

Pharmacology

Albendazole, the primary ingredient in Sintel, is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic that blocks glucose uptake in helminths, depleting their energy reserves. It acts by binding to parasite tubulin, disrupting microtubule formation, and impairing the parasites’ ability to function. Despite being poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, albendazole is extensively metabolized in the liver. Its main metabolite, albendazole sulphoxide, has anthelmintic properties and is responsible for the drug’s therapeutic effects.

Dosage & Administration

For adults & children over 2 years:

• 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) as a single dose for intestinal worms like Enterobius, Ascaris, Trichuris, and Ancylostoma.
• For Strongyloides or Taeniasis, take 400 mg daily for 3 consecutive days. A second course may be required if the infection persists.

For children 1-2 years:

• 200 mg (5 ml suspension) as a single dose.

Hydatid Disease (Echinococcosis):

• For patients >60 kg: 400 mg twice daily for 28 days.
• For patients <60 kg: 15 mg/kg body weight, divided into two doses (max 800 mg/day).
• Treatment cycles may continue for months or years in cases of alveolar echinococcosis.

Giardiasis:

• 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) daily for 5 days.

Always use as directed by your healthcare provider.

Interaction

No significant interactions have been reported with Sintel.

Contraindications

• Neonates: Not recommended for newborns.
• Pregnancy: Should be avoided during pregnancy or in women who may be pregnant, due to insufficient data on placental transfer.
• Children: Reduce dosage in children weighing less than 10 kg, but no routine reduction is required.

Side Effects

Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, headache, dizziness, liver enzyme changes, and rare cases of reversible alopecia. Serious side effects may include allergic reactions, convulsions, and blood disorders. Always monitor liver and blood counts during treatment.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Sintel (Albendazole) is classified as pregnancy category C by the FDA, meaning it should be avoided during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. It may also pass into breast milk, so its use during breastfeeding is not recommended.

Precautions & Warnings

• Monitor blood counts and liver function before and during treatment.
• Exclude pregnancy before starting treatment.
• Use under medical supervision if treating Echinococcosis, with regular monitoring of liver function and blood counts.

Therapeutic Class

Anthelmintic

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep out of reach of children.