Got a stomach bug that won’t quit? Nitazoxanide is an antiparasitic (and sometimes antiviral) medicine doctors use to treat infections that cause diarrhea, like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. It’s sold under brand names such as Alinia in some countries and comes as tablets and a liquid for children.
It works by blocking key enzymes parasites need to get energy, which stops them from multiplying. That makes symptoms like watery diarrhea, cramps, and bloating improve. Beyond Giardia and Cryptosporidium, clinicians sometimes try it for certain viral illnesses and off-label infections, but those uses depend on local guidance and specific patient situations.
For adults the typical dose is 500 mg taken twice a day for three days for acute protozoal diarrhea. There’s a liquid form for kids and dosing varies by age and weight, so follow the prescription or product label exactly. Take the dose with food — a meal or snack helps your body absorb the drug better and can reduce stomach upset.
Finish the full course even if you feel better after a day or two. If symptoms haven’t improved in 48–72 hours, or if you develop high fever, bloody stools, severe dehydration, or worsening pain, contact your doctor. Immunocompromised people may need longer treatment or different care.
Most people tolerate nitazoxanide well. Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, headache, and sometimes a yellowish tint to urine — harmless but surprising if you don’t expect it. Serious allergic reactions are rare but seek urgent care for rash, swelling, or breathing trouble.
There’s limited safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding, so discuss risks and benefits with your clinician if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have liver disease, frequent alcohol use, or take multiple medications, mention that to your prescriber — they may want blood tests or a different approach.
Quick practical checklist: take doses with food, keep the liquid refrigerated if the label says so, store tablets in a cool dry place, follow weight-based dosing for children, and don’t share the medicine. Avoid buying drugs from dubious online sellers; always use licensed pharmacies or follow a doctor’s prescription.
If you want help figuring out a dose, managing side effects, or finding a trusted pharmacy, talk to a pharmacist or your healthcare provider. A short antibiotic course often fixes protozoal diarrhea, but getting the right diagnosis and following directions makes the difference.
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