Nitazoxanide
Diarrhea, Cryptosporidiosis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Antiprotozoal
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Nitazoxanide
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Nitazoxanide is used to treat diarrhea caused by the protozoa Cryptosporidium and Giardia in adults and children older than 1 year.
Nitazoxanide works by inhibiting a reaction essential for the energy metabolism of protozoa. This stops the growth of protozoa, helping to resolve diarrhea symptoms.
For adults and children 12 years and older, Nitazoxanide is taken as one 500 mg tablet orally every 12 hours with food for 3 days. For children aged 1 to 11 years, the dose is based on age and weight, typically administered as an oral suspension.
Common side effects of Nitazoxanide include abdominal pain, headache, nausea, and discolored urine. Serious adverse effects are rare but may include allergic reactions.
Nitazoxanide is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. It should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. Its effectiveness in HIV-infected or immunodeficient patients has not been established.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nitazoxanide work?
Nitazoxanide works by interfering with the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, which is essential for the energy metabolism of protozoa. This action inhibits the growth of protozoa, helping to resolve diarrhea symptoms.
How does one know if Nitazoxanide is working?
The benefit of Nitazoxanide is evaluated by monitoring the resolution of diarrhea symptoms and the absence of protozoa in stool samples. Clinical response is typically assessed 4 to 7 days after completing the treatment course.
Is Nitazoxanide effective?
Nitazoxanide has been shown to be effective in treating diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium and Giardia in both adults and children. Clinical trials have demonstrated higher clinical response rates compared to placebo, indicating its effectiveness in resolving symptoms of diarrhea.
What is Nitazoxanide?
Nitazoxanide is an antiprotozoal medication used to treat diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium and Giardia in adults and children over 1 year old. It works by inhibiting the growth of protozoa, helping to resolve diarrhea symptoms. The medication is typically taken with food for 3 days.
What is Nitazoxanide used for?
Nitazoxanide is indicated for the treatment of diarrhea caused by the protozoa Cryptosporidium and Giardia in adults and children older than 1 year. It is used when diarrhea persists for more than 7 days and protozoa are suspected as the cause.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nitazoxanide?
Nitazoxanide is typically used for a duration of 3 days. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
How do I take Nitazoxanide?
Nitazoxanide should be taken with food to enhance absorption. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication, but it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea.
How should I store Nitazoxanide?
Store Nitazoxanide in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of any unused suspension after 7 days and follow local guidelines for safe disposal of medications.
What is the usual dose of Nitazoxanide?
For adults and children 12 years and older, the usual dose of Nitazoxanide is one 500 mg tablet taken orally every 12 hours with food for 3 days. For children aged 1 to 11 years, the dose is based on age and weight, typically administered as an oral suspension. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nitazoxanide with other prescription drugs?
Nitazoxanide's active metabolite, tizoxanide, is highly protein-bound, which may lead to interactions with other highly protein-bound drugs with narrow therapeutic indices, such as warfarin. Monitoring for adverse reactions is recommended when these drugs are used concurrently.
Can Nitazoxanide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no information on the presence of Nitazoxanide in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. Breastfeeding mothers should consider the benefits of breastfeeding, the mother's need for Nitazoxanide, and any potential adverse effects on the infant.
Can Nitazoxanide be taken safely while pregnant?
There are no adequate data on the use of Nitazoxanide in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk. Animal studies have not shown teratogenicity or fetotoxicity. Pregnant women should consult their doctor to weigh the benefits and potential risks before using this medication.
Is Nitazoxanide safe for the elderly?
Clinical studies did not include enough elderly subjects to determine if they respond differently from younger patients. Elderly patients may have decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, which should be considered when prescribing Nitazoxanide. Always consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Who should avoid taking Nitazoxanide?
Nitazoxanide is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. It should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, and its effectiveness in HIV-infected or immunodeficient patients has not been established. Always consult a doctor before use.
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