Which of the following drugs is found to be effective in worm infections like Ascariasis?

Appeared in: Raj. CHO - 2023

Explanation

Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic (anti-worm) drug, making it the appropriate choice for treating infections caused by worms like Ascaris lumbricoides.
Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting microtubule synthesis within the parasite, which disrupts essential functions like glucose uptake, leading to the worm's death.
It is listed as a first-choice drug for Ascariasis, often requiring only a single 400 mg dose for effective treatment.

Option A: Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to decrease stomach acid production.
Option B: Allopurinol is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used to reduce the production of uric acid in the body.
Option D: Fluconazole is an antifungal medication belonging to the azole class.

Visual 1: Diagram: Life cycle of Ascaris lumbricoides. This helps the learner understand the fecal-oral transmission route and reinforces the importance of hygiene measures to prevent reinfection.
Visual 2: Infographic: Mechanism of Action of Benzimidazoles. A visual showing how Albendazole disrupts microtubule formation in the worm's intestinal cells, leading to paralysis and death.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacological treatment of helminthic infections (Ascariasis) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing role is patient education on hygiene to break the cycle of reinfection. This includes proper handwashing, safe food preparation, and sanitation.
When administering Albendazole, instructing the patient to take it with a fatty meal can increase its systemic absorption, which is crucial for treating tissue-dwelling parasites, though less critical for purely intestinal worms.
Nurses in community health settings may participate in mass drug administration (MDA) programs, where Albendazole is given periodically to at-risk populations (like schoolchildren) to control worm burden and associated malnutrition.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question. It asks for a drug to treat a specific type of 'worm infection' (Ascariasis). This means you are looking for an anthelmintic drug.
Next, evaluate each option based on its drug class and primary use.
Option A, Rabeprazole, is a PPI for acid reflux.
Option B, Allopurinol, is for gout.
Option D, Fluconazole, is an antifungal.
Option C, Albendazole, is a known broad-spectrum anthelmintic.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QbdoHiJEBdl2vMhp54EFxv

Practise the full Raj. CHO - 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.