Nitaxen Tablet

Introduction

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is an anthelmintic and anti-protozoal drug used to treat various parasitic infections such as giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and trichomoniasis, as well as helminthic infections like ascariasis and hookworm. It is available in oral and intravenous solutions.

Uses

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is used to treat the following infections: Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium, Trichomonas vaginalis, Ascariasis, Enterobius vermicularis, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.

Brand Name	Nitaxen
Type	Tablet
Weight	500 mg
Generic	Nitazoxanide
Manufacturer	Leon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg works by inhibiting the cytopathic effect of certain protozoa and helminths. It may works by interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis and by inhibiting the development of the parasites.

How Long Does it take to Work?

The time it takes for nitazoxanide to take effect varies and depends on the type of infection being treated. Generally, it begins to work within hours or days after ingestion, however, in order for full effectiveness, it may be necessary to continue taking nitazoxanide for several weeks or months.

Absorption

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is absorbed quickly and completely when taken orally. The peak plasma concentration reaches within one hour of dosing.

Route of Elimination

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is eliminated mainly through the feces. It is not known to be excreted in urine.

Dosage

Age 1-3 years: 1 tea-spoonfull or 5 ml suspension every 12 hours for 3 days.
Age 4-11 years: 2 tea-spoonfulls or 10 ml suspension every 12 hours for 3 days.
Age 12 years or above: 5 tea-spoonfulls (25 ml) suspension or 1 tablet every 12 hours for 3 days.

It is recommended to be administered with food. Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is available in tablet form in the following dosages:

Adult dose: 500 mg twice daily for three days.
Children 2-11 years: one 11-30 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (maximum 500 mg/day) three days duration or two divided doses (maximum 12 mg/kg/day) for five days.
Children 1-2 years: 11 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (maximum 500 mg/day) three days duration or two divided doses (maximum 12 mg/kg/day) for five days.

Administration

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg should be taken orally, with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water without crushing, splitting or chewing the tablet.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg include: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and diarrhea. Serious side effects are rare, but may include an increased risk of developing an infection, liver toxicity, or allergic reactions.

Toxicity

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is generally considered to be safe at recommended doses. An acute overdose of nitazoxanide can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, increased heart rate, and confusion.

Precautions

Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of liver or kidney disease before taking Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg. In addition, it is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to reduce the risk of dehydration.

Interactions

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, and anticonvulsants. It should not be taken with the anticonvulsants phenobarbital and primidone. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking before starting Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg.

Disease Interaction

Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease should not take Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg. In addition, this medication should be used cautiously in patients with decreased kidney function, as it is excreted mainly by the kidneys.

Drug Interaction

Drugs that may interact with Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg include antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, and antidiabetics. It should not be taken with the anticonvulsants phenobarbital and primidone. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking before starting Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg.

Food Interactions

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg can be taken with or without food. Taking the medication with food may reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby.

Lactation Use

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg is not known to pass into breast milk and can be used by breastfeeding mothers. However, caution should be exercised as there have not been sufficient studies to assess the safety of this drug in breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg can result in vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, increased heart rate, and confusion. Treatment of an overdose usually involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and monitor vital signs.

Contraindication

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also not be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women, or in patients with a history of liver or kidney disease.

Use Direction

Storage Condition

Nitaxen Tablet 500 mg should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children.