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Apr 25, 2016Article Details
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Main Article Content
Efficacy of albendazole against the whipworm <i>Trichuris trichiura</i> - a randomised, controlled trial
Abstract
Outcome measures. Trichuris cure rates and reduction in the number of eggs/gin faeces, as well as the infection dynamics of Trichuris and Ascaris during treatment with placebo.
Results. Albendazole treatment was associated with Trichuris cure rates of 23% (400 mg), 56% (800 mg) and 67% (1 200 mg) after the final treatment. The corresponding reductions in the number of eggs/g of faeces were 96.8%, 99.3% and 99.7%. Environmental pollution by human faeces was confirmed because worm egg-negative children in the placebo group became egg-positive while the study was in progress.
Conclusion. The 400 mg stat dose had a low Trichuris cure rate. To repeat the dose on 2 or 3 days would increase cost, reduce compliance and complicate management. Albendazole cannot be used in deworming programmes in South Africa because it is a Schedule 4 prescription medicine. De-scheduling is needed urgently, particularly because of high efficacy against hookworm in KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring countries.
