Determination of Albendazole Content in Albendazole Tablets using UV Spectroscopy

Albendazole is a commonly used anti-helminthic drug belonging to the benzo-imidazole derivatives. It is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic that works by exerting an inhibitory effect on tubulin polymerization which results in the loss of cytoplasmic microtubules. Kenya suffers from a huge burden of helminthic diseases, with an estimated five million school going children being affected. It is therefore imperative that the medications in the market be of the correct dosages. The purpose of this study is to determine the concentration of albendazole in tablet formulation by using UV spectroscopy to ensure that it meets the required specifications for potency and dosage accuracy. Albendazole tablets were obtained from a number of pharmacies and hospitals in Meru Kenya, weighed, powdered diluted and their absorbance recorded using UV spectroscopy. The label claim amount of the tablets was found to be from 388.79 mg- 446.28 (97.20%-111.57%), with weight variations of 0.6340-7.6254 for the maximum and -0.7093 to -4.4067 for the minimum variation. Majority of the sampled brands complied with assay and weight specifications for albendazole as outlined by the international pharmacopeia.