Nitazoxanide

Generic name: nitazoxanide [ NYE-ta-ZOX-a-nide ]
Brand name: Alinia

Drug class: Antiprotozoal agent

Dosage form: Tablet, Oral suspension

Route of administration: Oral

Available Dose:

• Tablets: 500 mg
• Oral suspension: 100 mg/5 mL

Mechanism of action: Nitazoxanide interferes with the pyruvateoxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, which is essential for anaerobic metabolism in protozoa and anaerobic bacteria, leading to cell death.

Drug usage cases: Nitazoxanide is used for the treatment of diarrhea caused by Giardia lamblia or Cryptosporidium parvum in immunocompetent patients. It is also used for other parasitic infections and has shown efficacy against certain viral infections like rotavirus and norovirus.

Drug contraindications: Contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to nitazoxanide or any of its components.

Side effects: Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, headache, and discoloration of urine (yellow-green). Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions.

Warnings: Caution is advised in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Nitazoxanide should be used with caution in patients with a history of liver disease or biliary tract disease.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Nitazoxanide is categorized as a pregnancy category B drug. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. It is unknown if nitazoxanide or its metabolites are excreted in human milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding women.