Plasma concentrations of mebendazole during treatment of echinococcosis: preliminary results

High oral doses of mebendazole are used experimentally for the treatment of human alveolar and cystic echinococcosis. In order to assess bioavailability of this drug 1.5 g doses were given to 3 volunteers. Measurable plasma concentrations of 17 to 134 nmol/l were found only if mebendazole was given together with a fatty meal. In a patient with cholestasis plasma concentrations were higher than in the 3 normal subjects. In patients on long term treatment the increase in plasma concentration after administration of a 1 g dose varied between 0 and 500 nmol/l. It is concluded that systemic availability of mebendazole is enhanced by concomitant food intake. In view of the large intra- and interindividual variation in plasma concentration, monitoring plasma levels during long term therapy appears advisable.