“Nitazoxanide 500 mg Tablets – Broad-Spectrum Antiparasitic & Antiviral Treatment”

✅ What is Nitazoxanide 500 mg?

Nitazoxanide 500 mg is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic and antiviral medication used primarily to treat protozoal and helminthic infections, as well as certain viral gastroenteritis conditions. It is commonly prescribed for treating diarrhea caused by Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals. It is also used off-label for other infections, including rotavirus, norovirus, and occasionally for respiratory viral infections.

🧬 Mechanism of Action

Nitazoxanide works by inhibiting the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, which is essential for anaerobic energy metabolism in protozoa and some anaerobic bacteria. It disrupts the energy production pathway in parasites, leading to their death.

It also shows broad-spectrum antiviral activity, particularly by modulating host cell antiviral pathways and enhancing immune responses.

🩺 Indications / Uses

✔️ Approved Uses:

• Diarrhea caused by Giardia lamblia
• Diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium parvum

✔️ Off-Label Uses:

• Rotavirus and Norovirus infections
• Helminthic infections
• Clostridium difficile colitis (under investigation)
• COVID-19 (experimental use)
• Influenza and other respiratory viral infections

💊 Dosage & Administration

• Adults and children >12 years:
  500 mg twice daily for 3 days with food
• Children (age-based dosing):
  Oral suspension is used in pediatric cases, adjusted by weight

Take with food to enhance absorption. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.

⚠️ Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Vomiting

Less common/serious:

• Elevated liver enzymes
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching)
• Yellow discoloration of the sclera or urine (harmless and temporary)

🚫 Warnings & Precautions

• Not recommended in pregnancy, especially first trimester (unless benefits outweigh risks)
• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment
• Not for long-term use without medical supervision
• Avoid alcohol during treatment

🔄 Drug Interactions

• May interact with warfarin (increased bleeding risk)
• Use caution with immunosuppressants
• Can affect drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes, though data is limited

📦 Storage

• Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F)
• Protect from moisture and light
• Keep out of reach of children