Where is Nitazoxanide used?
Nitazoxanide is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of Traveler’s diarrhea that is caused by Cryptosporidium or Giardia. It is a kind of condition that may be also caused by a certain parasite infection of the intestines. This medication is used in adults and children who are at least 1 year old.
Nitazoxanide is an artificial antiprotozoal agent for oral administration. It is a light yellow crystalline powder. This is considered the first drug to treat cryptosporidium and effective for the treatment of diarrhea. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved this medication.
How does Nitazoxanide work?
Nitazoxanide works by preventing the development of certain protozoa that cause diarrhea. The activity of this drug is believed to be due to interference with the pyruvate: ferredoxin oxidoreductase enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction. It is vital to anaerobic energy breakdown. Experts have presented that the PFOR enzyme from Giardia lamblia directly lessens Nitazoxanide. It is by transferring electrons in the absence of ferredoxin. The DNA-derived PFOR protein sequence of Cryptosporidium parvum appears to be similar to that of Giardia lamblia.
How is Nitazoxanide taken?
Nitazoxanide is usually taken every 12 hours for 3 days. The medicine is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Each dose is to be taken with food as recommended by your doctor. Don’t forget to take it at the same time and in the same way each day. Follow the instructions of your doctor very carefully for the best benefit from the drug.
The recommended dosage is based on your age, condition, and response to it. You should not take more or less than the prescription. Continue to take this medicine until the full prescription is finished even if symptoms withdraw after a few dosages. Stopping the medication ahead of time may result in a return of the infection. Let your doctor know if your condition gets worse or does not improve.
What are the possible side effects of Nitazoxanide?
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Stomach upset
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Discolored urine
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
If these side effects persist or worsen, call your doctor right away.
What are the precautions in taking Nitazoxanide?
- Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, medical history, or current medications including food supplements, herbal products, or vitamins.
- While taking this medicine, limit your alcoholic beverages. It may increase certain side effects.
- This may make you feel dizzy. Avoid driving, using machinery, or perform some activity that needs your alertness. You should know how this medicine affects you.
- If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed one.
- Consult first your doctor if you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman. This drug should only be used when needed.
- If there are any signs of an overdose, call for emergency medical assistance right away.
- Do not use this drug for the treatment of other conditions.
- Keep this away from direct sunlight or heat.
