Alinia
Generic name:nitazoxanide [ NYE-ta-ZOX-a-nide ]
Drug class:Amebicides
What is Alinia?
Alinia is an antiprotozoal medicine that treats infections caused by protozoa (single-cell parasites that live in moist places such as lakes, streams, and soil).
Alinia is used to treat diarrhea caused by Giardia or Cryptosporidium. These conditions are sometimes called "Traveler's diarrhea." This medicine is used in adults and children who are at least 1 year old.
Alinia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Alinia if you are allergic to it.
To make sure Alinia is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
liver or kidney disease;
HIV or AIDS; or
a weak immune system.
The tablet form of Alinia should not be given to a child younger than 12 years old. Children ages 1 to 11 years should use only the oral suspension (liquid) form of nitazoxanide.
Alinia is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether nitazoxanide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Alinia?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take Alinia with food.
Alinia is usually taken once every 12 hours for 3 days. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Throw away any unused liquid after 7 days.
