Genotoxicity of flubendazole and its metabolites in vitro and the impact of a new formulation on in vivo aneugenicity

Abstract

The anti-parasitic benzimidazole flubendazole has been used for many years to treat intestinal infections in humans and animals.  This study explored the genotoxicity of flubendazole and its main metabolites, and tested a new oral formulation. Flubendazole was found to have a marked effect on the number of chromosomes produced, similar to other benzimidazoles currently used as antiparasitic therapies, and the new formulation also had detectable effects. Based on the lack of carcinogenicity of this class of benzimidazoles and the intended short-term dosing, it is unlikely that flubendazole treatment will pose a carcinogenic risk to patients. This research is part of the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)