Nitazoxanide
Brands: Alinia, Nitazox
Nitazoxanide is an antiparasitic medication used in pets to treat infections caused by protozoa.
Used for
- giardiasis
- cryptosporidiosis
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- twice daily
- Duration
- 3-5 days
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 12.5 mg/kg body weight
dog
- Large dogs
- 12.5 mg/kg body weight
- Small dogs
- 12.5 mg/kg body weight
- Medium dogs
- 12.5 mg/kg body weight
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Nitazoxanide
Side effects
Common
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Rare
- Headache
Severe
- Allergic reactions
Do not use when
- hypersensitivity to Nitazoxanide
Interacts with
- antiparasitic drugs
- anticoagulants
Warnings
- Consult a veterinarian before use
- Monitor for allergic reactions
Nitazoxanide questions
What is Nitazoxanide used for in pets?
It is used to treat protozoal infections such as giardiasis in dogs and cats.
How should Nitazoxanide be given?
It should be given orally with food, as directed by your veterinarian.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset. Severe reactions like allergies are rare but require immediate veterinary care.
Can Nitazoxanide be used with other medications?
Consult your veterinarian for possible drug interactions before combining treatments.
Is a prescription required?
Yes, Nitazoxanide requires a veterinary prescription.
Full drug detail
Overview
Nitazoxanide is an antiparasitic medication commonly used to treat infections caused by protozoa in pets, including dogs and cats. It is effective against a variety of parasites and is often prescribed when other treatments are ineffective.
How It Works
Nitazoxanide works by interfering with the energy metabolism of parasites, leading to their eventual death. It targets specific enzymes, disrupting the parasite's ability to reproduce and survive.
Uses & Indications
Nitazoxanide is primarily used to treat protozoal infections such as giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis in pets. It may also be used for other parasitic infections as determined by a veterinarian.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 12.5 mg/kg body weight
- Medium Dogs: 12.5 mg/kg body weight
- Large Dogs: 12.5 mg/kg body weight
Cats
- Standard: 12.5 mg/kg body weight
Administration
Nitazoxanide is administered orally and is typically given with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Frequency
The medication is usually given twice daily for a duration prescribed by the veterinarian, typically for 3-5 days.
Side Effects
Common
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Rare
- Headache
Severe
- Allergic reactions (seek immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
Consult a veterinarian before using Nitazoxanide. Do not use in pets with known hypersensitivity to the drug.
Drug Interactions
- Interactions with other antiparasitic drugs
- Potential interaction with anticoagulants
Storage
Store Nitazoxanide at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
FAQ
- What is Nitazoxanide used for in pets? Nitazoxanide is used to treat protozoal infections such as giardiasis in dogs and cats.
- How should Nitazoxanide be given? It should be given orally with food, as directed by your veterinarian.
- Are there any side effects? Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset. Severe reactions like allergies are rare but require immediate veterinary care.
- Can Nitazoxanide be used with other medications? Consult your veterinarian for possible drug interactions before combining treatments.
- Is a prescription required? Yes, Nitazoxanide requires a veterinary prescription.