Nitaxen
Generic Name
Nitazoxanide
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| nitaxen 500 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Nitazoxanide is an antiprotozoal and anthelmintic agent used for the treatment of various parasitic infections, including cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis. It interferes with the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, which is essential for anaerobic energy metabolism in certain parasites.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
500 mg orally every 12 hours for 3 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment generally required, but caution with impaired renal/hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution, as data are limited; consider dose reduction if severe.
How to Take
Oral administration. Can be taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Mechanism of Action
Nitazoxanide is believed to work by inhibiting the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction in various parasites, which is crucial for their anaerobic energy metabolism. This leads to disruption of energy production and parasite death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not well-defined, clinical improvement generally seen within days of treatment.
Excretion
Tizoxanide is excreted in urine and bile, and tizoxanide glucuronide is excreted in urine and feces.
Half life
Tizoxanide (active metabolite) has a plasma half-life of approximately 1-1.5 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and rapidly metabolized.
Metabolism
Rapidly metabolized to an active metabolite, tizoxanide, and tizoxanide glucuronide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to nitazoxanide or any component of the formulation
- Children under 1 year of age (for cryptosporidiosis)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.
Highly protein-bound drugs
Theoretical potential for displacement due to tizoxanide being highly protein-bound.
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
No specific antidote. Symptomatic and supportive treatment recommended. No serious adverse events reported in clinical trials at doses up to 4000 mg/day for 7 days.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Caution in nursing mothers; consider risks vs. benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA (for specific indications) and DGDA
Patent Status
Generics available, patent expired for original compound
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Nitazoxanide has undergone various clinical trials demonstrating efficacy in treating cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis, including studies in pediatric and adult populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (baseline and periodic if long-term use)
- Complete blood count (if clinically indicated)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to complete the full course to prevent recurrence.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity reactions.
- Consider potential drug interactions, especially with warfarin.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
- Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness in some individuals; caution advised when driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hygiene (hand washing) to prevent reinfection.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.