What are the risks of taking Albendazole during pregnancy?

Albendazole is contraindicated (not permitted) during pregnancy. In fact in women of reproductive age, the drug should be taken either soon after menstruation or after a negative pregnancy test. Multiple animal studies have shown that the drug can cause multiple defects in the foetus. Human studies have not been performed due to ethical reasons. In such cases one needs to assess the risk in consultation with the gynaecologist.