Nitazoxanide

Introduction

Nitazoxanide 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

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

Brand Name	Nitazoxanide
Type
Weight
Generic	Nitazoxanide
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Nitazoxanide 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

Nitazoxanide is absorbed quickly and completely when taken orally. The peak plasma concentration reaches within one hour of dosing.

Route of Elimination

Nitazoxanide 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. Nitazoxanide 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

Nitazoxanide 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 Nitazoxanide 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

Nitazoxanide 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 Nitazoxanide . In addition, it is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication to reduce the risk of dehydration.

Interactions

Nitazoxanide 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 Nitazoxanide .

Disease Interaction

Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease should not take Nitazoxanide . 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 Nitazoxanide 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 Nitazoxanide .

Food Interactions

Nitazoxanide can be taken with or without food. Taking the medication with food may reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Nitazoxanide should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby.

Lactation Use

Nitazoxanide 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 Nitazoxanide 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

Nitazoxanide 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

Nitazoxanide 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.

Storage Condition

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

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of nitazoxanide has not been determined in humans.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of nitazoxanide is 8-14 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of nitazoxanide is 4.6 ± 2.5mL/min/kg.

See in details version Nitazoxanide also Nitazoxanide in bangla

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