Nitazoxanide

What is Nitazoxanide?

Nitazoxanide is an antiparasitic and antiviral medicine commonly used to treat a range of intestinal infections. It is trusted worldwide, including in the USA, for managing conditions caused by protozoa, helminths, and certain viral illnesses. This medicine helps reduce symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, and dehydration associated with gastrointestinal infections. Understanding how it works, how to take it, and the precautions to follow can help you get safe and effective results during treatment.

---

Nitazoxanide Used For

Nitazoxanide is used to treat infections such as giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and some viral-related diarrhea episodes. Doctors often prescribe it when someone experiences persistent digestive upset due to parasitic contamination in food or water. It helps restore gut balance and supports faster recovery.

---

Chemical Composition

The medication contains Nitazoxanide as the active ingredient. After ingestion, it converts into tizoxanide, its active metabolite, which shows strong antiparasitic and antiviral action.

---

Nitazoxanide Mechanism

Nitazoxanide works by blocking essential enzymes that parasites and certain viruses need to grow and multiply. This action disrupts their energy production and stops them from spreading, allowing the body to clear the infection more efficiently.

---

How Does It Help With Digestive Infections?

During intestinal infections, harmful organisms irritate the stomach and intestines, leading to cramps, loose stools, and weakness. Nitazoxanide helps by reducing the presence of these microbes, relieving inflammation, and promoting normal digestion. Many people experience symptom improvement within a few days of treatment.

---

What Are the Other Benefits?

• Effective for both parasitic and some viral infections

• Helps reduce diarrhea frequency and severity

• Suitable for adults and children (age-specific doses apply)

• Well-tolerated with minimal drug interactions

• Can be used even in cases where traditional antiparasitic medicines are ineffective

---

Dosages

Correct dosing ensures safe and optimal recovery from infection. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely.

---

Available Strengths or Dosage

Nitazoxanide is typically available as:

• Nitazoxanide 500 mg tablets

• Nitazoxanide 100 mg / 200 mg oral suspension (commonly used in children)

---

How and When to Take It

• Take with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach discomfort.

• Usually taken twice daily, with morning and evening meals.

• Swallow tablets whole; the suspension should be measured using a proper dosing cup or syringe.

• Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.

---

Overdose Caution

Taking more than the recommended dose may cause severe stomach pain, vomiting, or dizziness. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

---

Who Can Use/Take Nitazoxanide?

Nitazoxanide can be used by adults and children above the recommended age, depending on the dosage form.
However, it may not be suitable for:

• Infants below the approved age

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women unless advised by a doctor

• People with severe liver disease

• Individuals with known allergy to Nitazoxanide or related compounds

Those with chronic illnesses or using multiple medications should consult their doctor before starting treatment.

---

Side Effects & Precautions

---

What Are the Side Effects?

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Abdominal pain

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Dizziness

• Temporary yellowish discoloration of urine

Most symptoms are mild and pass as the body adjusts to the medicine.

---

What Are the Precautions to Avoid Side Effects?

• Always take the medicine with meals

• Stay well-hydrated to support faster recovery

• Avoid alcohol to prevent stomach irritation

• Inform your doctor about any ongoing medication

• Contact your healthcare provider if severe diarrhea, allergic reactions, or persistent stomach pain occur

---

Always consult your doctor before starting a dose. If prescribed, you can order Nitazoxanide tablets or suspension online safely from trusted pharmacy sources and ensure timely refills to support your treatment progress.