Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet for Worm Infections – Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet – Combat parasitic infections easily with this single-dose chewable!

Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet
💊 Type: Prescription Medicine
🏢 Manufacturer: Mankind Pharma Ltd
🧪 Composition: Ivermectin (6mg) + Albendazole (400mg)
🌡️ Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place
🔁 Similar Medicines: [Click here to view substitutes]

Product Introduction

Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet is a powerful dual-action antiparasitic medication combining two potent active ingredients: Ivermectin (6mg) and Albendazole (400mg). This combination formulation is specifically designed to combat a wide spectrum of parasitic infections affecting humans, providing comprehensive coverage against both intestinal helminths (worms) and ectoparasites (external parasites).

The strategic combination of Ivermectin and Albendazole in Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet offers a synergistic approach to parasite elimination. Albendazole primarily targets intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and certain tapeworms, while Ivermectin is particularly effective against threadworms (strongyloidiasis), as well as ectoparasites like scabies mites and head lice. Together, they provide a broad-spectrum antiparasitic effect that is especially valuable in regions where polyparasitism (infection with multiple parasite types) is common.

This chewable formulation has been developed to enhance patient compliance, particularly in pediatric populations and communities where regular administration of antiparasitic medication is part of public health programs. The chewable nature of the tablet eliminates the need for water during administration, making it convenient for use in diverse settings, including areas with limited access to clean water.

Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet is typically prescribed for the treatment of mixed parasitic infections, during community-wide deworming programs, or in cases where a patient is suspected to harbor multiple types of parasites. The medication's dual mechanism of action not only works to eliminate existing parasites but also helps prevent reinfection during the treatment period by targeting different developmental stages of the parasites.

It's worth noting that this combination therapy is generally reserved for specific clinical scenarios and is usually prescribed by healthcare professionals specialized in infectious diseases or tropical medicine. Due to the potency of both active ingredients, Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet is typically administered under medical supervision, following appropriate diagnosis and weight-based dosing considerations, especially in mass drug administration programs for neglected tropical diseases.

Key Composition & Ingredients

• Active Ingredients:

  • Ivermectin 6mg
  • Albendazole 400mg

• Inactive Ingredients: May include:

  • Microcrystalline cellulose
  • Lactose monohydrate
  • Magnesium stearate
  • Colloidal silicon dioxide
  • Sodium starch glycolate
  • Artificial flavors (often fruit flavors)
  • Sweeteners (such as sucralose or aspartame)
  • Colorants (such as titanium dioxide)

Uses of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

• Treatment of mixed intestinal helminth infections
• Management of strongyloidiasis (threadworm infection)
• Treatment of ascariasis (roundworm infection)
• Management of hookworm infections (Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale)
• Treatment of trichuriasis (whipworm infection)
• Management of enterobiasis (pinworm infection)
• Treatment of scabies infestation
• Management of head lice infestation
• Treatment of certain tissue nematode infections
• Part of lymphatic filariasis control programs
• Treatment of cutaneous larva migrans
• Management of neurocysticercosis (in specific cases)
• Control of onchocerciasis (river blindness) in endemic areas
• Part of community-wide deworming programs in endemic regions

Benefits of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage against various parasitic infections
• Combines two complementary antiparasitic mechanisms for enhanced efficacy
• Single-dose treatment effective for many common parasitic infections
• Chewable formulation improves compliance, especially in children
• Can be taken without water, convenient for various settings
• Eliminates the need for multiple different antiparasitic medications
• Particularly valuable in regions with high polyparasitism prevalence
• Effective against both intestinal and tissue-dwelling parasites
• Helps reduce the overall parasite burden in endemic communities
• May help prevent reinfection during the treatment period
• Cost-effective approach for comprehensive parasite control
• Suitable for mass drug administration programs in endemic areas

How Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet Works

Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet combines two antiparasitic agents with different mechanisms of action:

1. Ivermectin (6mg):

   • Binds selectively to glutamate-gated chloride ion channels found in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells
   • This binding causes increased permeability to chloride ions, resulting in hyperpolarization of the nerve or muscle cell
   • The hyperpolarization paralyzes and kills the parasite
   • Particularly effective against nematodes and arthropods
   • Has limited penetration across the blood-brain barrier in humans at therapeutic doses
   • Also disrupts the reproduction cycle of certain parasites

2. Albendazole (400mg):

   • Selectively binds to beta-tubulin in parasitic cells
   • Inhibits microtubule polymerization, preventing glucose uptake in the helminth
   • This leads to glycogen depletion, decreased ATP formation, and eventually immobilization and death of the parasite
   • Also blocks egg production in female worms
   • Undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver to form albendazole sulfoxide, the active metabolite
   • Effective against both larval and adult stages of many helminths

The combination provides complementary coverage:

• Ivermectin primarily targets certain nematodes and ectoparasites
• Albendazole is effective against a broad range of intestinal helminths
• Together, they address most major human parasitic infections with a single formulation

Dosage of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

Daily Dose

• For intestinal helminth infections in adults and children >15kg:

  • Typically a single dose based on weight
  • Usually one tablet (Ivermectin 6mg + Albendazole 400mg) as a single dose
  • May be repeated after 2-4 weeks in heavy infections

• For scabies:

  • Single dose, often repeated after 7-14 days

• Weight-based dosing may be required for children:

  • Healthcare providers should determine appropriate dosing for children based on weight
  • Tablet may need to be divided for children under certain weight thresholds

• For mass drug administration programs:

  • Follows specific protocols established by health authorities
  • Typically administered once or twice yearly

Missed Dose

• As treatment is usually a single dose, the concept of missed doses typically doesn't apply
• If a scheduled repeated dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it's close to the next scheduled dose
• Consult healthcare provider for guidance if unsure

Overdose

• Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension, ataxia, and seizures
• Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected
• Treatment is supportive and symptomatic

How to Use Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

• Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing
• Can be taken with or without food, though taking with food may improve tolerance
• For children who cannot chew, the tablet may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of soft food
• Take the full prescribed dose at one time unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after taking the medication, especially when treating scabies or other contagious parasites
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding isolation or sanitation measures during treatment
• For optimal results, all household members may need treatment simultaneously when dealing with highly contagious parasites like scabies

Side Effects of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Transient fever
• Itching or rash

Uncommon Side Effects

• Elevated liver enzymes
• Joint or muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Increased heart rate
• Dizziness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)
• Temporary hair loss

Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin reactions
• Neurological effects (seizures, confusion)
• Significant drop in blood pressure
• Mazzotti reaction (in patients with onchocerciasis)
• Blood disorders
• Liver injury

How to Manage Side Effects

• Most mild side effects resolve within a few days without intervention
• Stay hydrated to help manage gastrointestinal side effects
• Antihistamines may help relieve itching (consult healthcare provider)
• Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with headache or mild pain
• For parasitic die-off reactions, rest and supportive care are recommended
• Report severe or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider immediately

Safety Advice for Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

Alcohol

CAUTION: Avoid alcohol during treatment and for a few days after, as it may increase the risk of side effects, particularly liver-related adverse effects.

Pregnancy

UNSAFE: Not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding

CAUTION: Ivermectin is excreted in breast milk. Consider temporarily suspending breastfeeding for 1-2 days after treatment or use an alternative medication if possible.

Driving

CAUTION: May cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. Assess your response to the medication before driving or operating machinery.

Kidney

CAUTION: No specific dose adjustment required for mild to moderate impairment, but use cautiously in severe kidney disease. Consult your doctor.

Liver

CAUTION: Both active ingredients are metabolized by the liver. Use with caution in patients with liver disease; dose adjustments or monitoring may be required.

Children

CAUTION: Safety and efficacy in children weighing less than 15kg have not been well established. Weight-based dosing is critical. Use only under medical supervision.

Older Adults

CAUTION: May be more sensitive to side effects. Monitor closely, especially for neurological adverse effects.

Allergy

CONTRAINDICATED: Do not use if allergic to ivermectin, albendazole, or any component of the formulation.

Warnings & Precautions of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

• Mazzotti Reaction: Patients with onchocerciasis may experience severe reactions due to parasite die-off
• CNS Effects: May cause neurological side effects, especially at higher doses
• Liver Function: Periodic monitoring of liver function may be necessary with prolonged use
• Blood Disorders: Rare cases of blood disorders have been reported; monitoring may be advised
• Ocular Effects: Rare reports of eye irritation, redness, or visual changes
• Enhanced Drug Effect: Certain conditions may increase blood levels of either component
• Drug Interactions: Several significant drug interactions may occur
• Specific Helminth Infections: May not be appropriate for all types of helminth infections
• Self-Medication: Should not be used for self-medication without proper diagnosis
• Reinfection: Environmental measures should be implemented to prevent reinfection
• Resistance Development: Inappropriate use may contribute to parasite resistance

Interactions with Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Warfarin: May enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely
• Anticonvulsants: May alter levels of both drugs; monitor for efficacy and side effects
• Cimetidine: May increase albendazole levels
• Dexamethasone: May increase albendazole levels
• HIV Protease Inhibitors: May increase ivermectin levels
• Barbiturates: May decrease albendazole effectiveness
• Rifampin: May decrease albendazole levels
• Other antiparasitic medications: May have additive toxicity
• P-glycoprotein inhibitors: May increase ivermectin levels

Drug-Food Interactions

• Fatty meals: Taking with fatty foods may increase absorption, particularly of albendazole
• Grapefruit juice: May theoretically affect metabolism; best avoided during treatment
• Alcohol: May increase the risk of liver-related side effects

Contraindications of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet

• Hypersensitivity to ivermectin, albendazole, or any component of the formulation
• Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
• Children weighing less than 15kg (unless specifically directed by a specialist)
• Patients with central nervous system disorders that might affect the blood-brain barrier
• Severe liver disease
• Concurrent use of drugs known to significantly inhibit P-glycoprotein (without close monitoring)
• Loiasis in areas with high Loa loa microfilarial loads
• Certain eye conditions involving the retina or optic nerve

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Hygiene Measures:
  • Wash hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom
  • Keep fingernails short and clean
  • Avoid walking barefoot in endemic areas
  • Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• Environmental Control:
  • Regularly wash bedding and clothing in hot water during treatment
  • Vacuum living areas thoroughly, especially when treating scabies or lice
  • Ensure proper sanitation and waste disposal to prevent reinfection
• Diet Recommendations:
  • Maintain good nutrition to support immune function
  • Stay well-hydrated during treatment
  • A fatty meal before taking the medication may improve albendazole absorption
• Post-Treatment Care:
  • Complete any household decontamination measures as recommended
  • Follow up with healthcare provider as advised to confirm cure
  • Consider family/household member screening and treatment when appropriate

Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine

Healthcare providers prescribe Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet due to several key advantages:

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage against multiple parasite types with a single formulation
• Convenient single-dose therapy for many common parasitic infections
• Particularly valuable in geographic regions with high prevalence of polyparasitism
• Chewable formulation improves compliance, especially in pediatric populations
• Effective for community-wide deworming programs
• Combined mechanism of action may help prevent resistance development
• Cost-effective approach to comprehensive parasite treatment
• Proven efficacy in clinical trials and field applications
• Particularly useful when diagnostic resources are limited and empiric therapy is necessary

Substitutes of Bandy-Plus Chewable Tablet & Alternative Medicines

Single-Ingredient Alternatives:

• Ivermectin tablets (various brands)
• Albendazole tablets or suspension (various brands)
• Mebendazole tablets for certain helminth infections
• Pyrantel pamoate for specific roundworm infections
• Praziquantel for tapeworm infections
• Diethylcarbamazine for filarial infections

Other Combination Products:

• Region-specific combinations of antiparasitic medications
• Fixed-dose combinations with different strength ratios

Non-Pharmaceutical Approaches:

• For prevention: improved sanitation and hygiene measures
• Regular hand washing and nail hygiene
• Proper food preparation and cooking practices
• Clean water sources and water treatment
• Community education on parasite transmission
• Vector control measures where applicable

Storage Guidelines

• Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F)
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Store in the original package until time of use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiration date
• Do not refrigerate or freeze
• Close container tightly after use

User Feedback & Patient Concerns

Common feedback from patients includes:

• Effective resolution of symptoms in most cases
• Some report mild and transient gastrointestinal discomfort
• Convenience of single-dose therapy appreciated
• Chewable formulation generally well-accepted, even by children
• Some patients report temporary worsening of symptoms before improvement (likely due to parasite die-off)
• Questions about need for repeat treatment or family treatment frequently arise
• Concerns about environmental decontamination to prevent reinfection
• Occasional reports of temporary dizziness or headache
• Generally positive response regarding overall efficacy

Quick Tips

• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed
• Take measures to prevent reinfection (hand washing, hygiene, etc.)
• Consider treating all household members simultaneously for highly contagious parasites
• Notify your doctor of any other medications you are taking
• Maintain good hydration during treatment
• Chew tablet thoroughly before swallowing
• Taking with food may help reduce stomach upset
• Follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist
• Wash bedding and clothing in hot water during and after treatment for ectoparasites
• Do not share personal items that may transmit parasites

Fact Box

• Chemical Class: Macrocyclic lactone (Ivermectin) + Benzimidazole (Albendazole)
• Habit Forming: No
• Therapeutic Class: Antiparasitic, Anthelmintic
• Action Class: Neuromuscular and metabolic inhibitors of parasites

Useful Diagnostic Tests

Before or during treatment, your doctor may recommend:

• Stool examination for ova and parasites
• Skin scrapings (for scabies diagnosis)
• Complete blood count (to check for eosinophilia or anemia)
• Liver function tests
• Serological tests for specific parasitic infections
• In some cases, imaging studies for suspected tissue parasites
• Follow-up stool examinations to confirm cure

References

1. World Health Organization Guidelines for the Treatment of Parasitic Infections
2. Clinical Infectious Disease Treatment Guidelines
3. Pharmacology references for antiparasitic medications
4. Clinical studies on combination therapy for parasitic infections
5. National treatment guidelines for neglected tropical diseases

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information you have read here. This medication should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.