Nitazoxanide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Buying Tips
Nitazoxanide is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic that also shows antiviral activity. Many doctors prescribe it for giardiasis and for cryptosporidiosis, especially in people who keep getting watery diarrhea after travel. It works by stopping the energy production of parasites and some viruses, which helps clear the infection faster.
What Nitazoxanide Treats
For adults the usual tablet dose is 500 mg twice daily. Duration depends on the infection: commonly three days for giardia; longer courses may be needed for cryptosporidium or complicated cases. Children get weight-based doses and there is a suspension form for younger kids. Don't change the dose without checking with your prescriber.
Side effects: Side effects are usually mild. People report stomach pain, nausea, headache, and a temporary yellow tint to urine. Serious reactions are rare but can include allergic rash or liver problems. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Use in pregnancy is limited so doctors weigh risks and benefits before prescribing.
Interactions and testing: Nitazoxanide has fewer known drug interactions than many antibiotics, but that does not mean none exist. If you take blood thinners, anticonvulsants, or many chronic medicines, mention them to your provider. Labs are not always required, but liver tests may be checked for long or repeated courses.
When to see a doctor now: If diarrhea is severe, contains blood, is accompanied by high fever, or causes dehydration, seek care. Also see a clinician if symptoms don't improve after the prescribed course or return soon after treatment.
Safe buying and practical tips
If you need to buy nitazoxanide online, pick a licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription and offers clear contact details. Look for secure checkout and verified customer reviews. Our site reviews online pharmacies and covers tips for safe ordering—read those guides before you buy. Avoid sellers that offer huge discounts without prescriptions or push multiple medicines at once.
What about antivirals and research? Researchers have tested nitazoxanide against influenza and other viruses. Some trials showed small benefits in symptom length, but it is not a routine antiviral for influenza or COVID-19. Use it only when a clinician recommends it for a specific infection.
Pediatric dosing and storage: For children, dose is set by weight—commonly 7.5 mg per kg twice daily for three days for giardiasis, but check the label or ask your pediatrician. The oral suspension should be shaken and stored at room temperature away from sunlight. Finish the full course even if symptoms ease within a day or two.
Cost and insurance: Nitazoxanide can be more expensive than older antiparasitics. Check generics, compare prices, and ask your pharmacist about patient assistance programs. If buying online, save copies of prescription and receipts in case you need to dispute a charge or confirm the order.
Quick checklist before taking nitazoxanide: confirm the diagnosis, check dose for age and weight, tell your doctor about liver disease and other medicines, buy from a licensed source, and return for follow-up if symptoms persist.
