II. Indications
- Giardiasis (Diarrheal illness)
-
Cryptosporidiosis (Diarrheal Illness)
- May also be used off-label in Cryptosporidiosis with comorbid HIV Infection (on HAART)
III. Mechanism
- Synthetic benzamide
- Antiprotozoal agent blocks anaerobic Energy Metabolism
- Pyruvate ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR enzyme) dependent electron transfer
- Activity against Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum
IV. Medications
- Tablet: 500 mg
- Suspension: 100 mg/5 ml
- May be stored at room Temperature for up to 7 days
- Contains 1.5 g sucrose per 5 ml (teaspoon)
V. Dosing: Diarrhea associated with Giardiasis or Cryptosporidiosis
- Adult (and child >=12 years)
- Nitazoxanide 500 mg orally twice daily with food for 3 days
- Child
- Age 1 to 3 years: 100 mg orally twice daily with food for 3 days
- Age 3 to 11 years: 200 mg orally twice daily with food for 3 days
- Age >=12 years: Use adult dose
VI. Safety
- Unknown safety in pregnancy
- Unknown safety in Lactation
VII. Adverse Effects
- Urine will appear bright yellow orange (pyridium-like effect)
VIII. Resources
- Nitazoxanide Powder for Suspension (DailyMed)
- Nitazoxanide Tablet