Tinidazole

Bacterial Vaginosis, Amebiasis ... show more

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA)

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WHO Essential Medicine

YES

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

Nitroimidazole Antimicrobial

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

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Drug Ingredient

Tinidazole

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Summary

  • Tinidazole is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections. It's often prescribed for conditions like trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, giardiasis, and amebiasis, which affect the stomach, intestines, or reproductive system.

  • Tinidazole works by entering the bacterial or parasite cells, disrupting their DNA structure and preventing them from growing or multiplying. This effectively kills the infection and treats conditions caused by anaerobic bacteria and parasites.

  • The dosage of Tinidazole varies based on the type of infection. For trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis, a single dose of 2g is usually prescribed. For giardiasis and amebiasis, a daily dose of 2g for 3 to 5 days is common. Always follow the prescribed dose and complete the course to prevent resistance.

  • Common side effects of Tinidazole include nausea, vomiting, metallic taste, dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Less common but serious side effects include seizures, nerve damage, and severe allergic reactions. If severe side effects occur, stop taking the medicine and seek medical attention immediately.

  • People with liver disease, seizure disorders, or blood disorders should use Tinidazole cautiously. Pregnant women in the first trimester should not take it as it may harm the baby. Those allergic to Tinidazole or metronidazole should avoid it. Always consult your doctor before using Tinidazole.

Indications and Purpose

What is Tinidazole used for?

Tinidazole is indicated for treating trichomoniasis, giardiasis, amebiasis, and bacterial vaginosis. It is effective against certain protozoa and bacteria, helping to clear infections in the intestines, liver, and reproductive system.

How does Tinidazole work?

Tinidazole works by entering the cells of the microorganisms causing the infection and disrupting their DNA, leading to cell death. This action effectively kills the bacteria or protozoa responsible for the infection.

Is Tinidazole effective?

Tinidazole has been shown to be effective in treating trichomoniasis, giardiasis, amebiasis, and bacterial vaginosis. Clinical studies have demonstrated high cure rates for these infections, with Tinidazole often being comparable to or more effective than other treatments.

How does one know if Tinidazole is working?

The benefit of Tinidazole is evaluated through clinical response and laboratory tests. Your doctor may order lab tests to check your body's response to the medication. If symptoms persist after completing the course, consult your doctor.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of Tinidazole?

For adults, the usual dose of Tinidazole is a single 2 g oral dose taken with food for trichomoniasis and giardiasis. For amebiasis, the dose is 2 g per day for 3-5 days. For bacterial vaginosis, it can be 2 g once daily for 2 days or 1 g once daily for 5 days. For children older than three years, the dose for giardiasis and amebiasis is 50 mg/kg (up to 2 g) once daily with food.

How do I take Tinidazole?

Tinidazole should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Avoid alcohol and products containing alcohol or propylene glycol during treatment and for 3 days after. Consult your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while on this medication.

For how long do I take Tinidazole?

The typical duration of Tinidazole use varies depending on the condition being treated. For trichomoniasis and giardiasis, it is usually a single dose. For amebiasis, it is taken for 3-5 days. For bacterial vaginosis, it can be taken for 2 days or 5 days, depending on the prescribed regimen.

How long does it take for Tinidazole to start working?

Tinidazole is rapidly absorbed and begins to work soon after ingestion, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1.6 hours. However, the time to symptom relief may vary depending on the infection being treated.

How should I store Tinidazole?

Store Tinidazole in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Protect it from light and keep it out of reach of children. Discard any remaining liquid after 7 days.

Warnings and Precautions

Who should avoid taking Tinidazole?

Important warnings for Tinidazole include the potential risk for carcinogenicity, neurological adverse reactions, and the development of drug-resistant bacteria. It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to nitroimidazole derivatives. Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 3 days after. Use caution in patients with blood dyscrasia or liver disease.

Can I take Tinidazole with other prescription drugs?

Tinidazole may interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing bleeding risk. Avoid alcohol and products with ethanol or propylene glycol during treatment and for 3 days after. It may also interact with disulfiram, lithium, phenytoin, cyclosporine, and fluorouracil, requiring careful monitoring or dose adjustments.

Can I take Tinidazole with vitamins or supplements?

From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.

Can Tinidazole be taken safely while pregnant?

Tinidazole should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as there is limited data on its safety. Animal studies showed some fetal harm at high doses, but human data is insufficient. Pregnant women should consult their doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.

Can Tinidazole be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is not recommended during Tinidazole treatment and for 72 hours after the last dose due to potential serious adverse reactions, including tumorigenicity. Nursing mothers may choose to pump and discard milk during this period to minimize infant exposure.

Is Tinidazole safe for the elderly?

Elderly patients should use Tinidazole with caution, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Dose selection should be cautious, and monitoring for side effects is advised.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Tinidazole?

Tinidazole may cause dizziness, tiredness, or weakness, which could potentially limit the ability to exercise. If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities and consult your doctor for further guidance.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Tinidazole?

Drinking alcohol while taking Tinidazole can cause unpleasant side effects such as stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing. It is advised to avoid alcoholic beverages and products containing alcohol during treatment and for 3 days after completing Tinidazole therapy.