We usually hear about the uses and benefits of tinidazole. Here we tell you all the details.
Index
Tinidazole – What is it
Tinidazole is an antiparasitic medicine used against protozoal infections. It is widely known throughout Europe and the developing world as a treatment for a variety of amoebic and parasitic infections. It was developed in 1972 and is a prominent member of the nitroimidazole class of antibiotics.
Tinidazole is marketed by Mission Pharmacal under the brand name Tindamax, by Pfizer under the names Fasigyn and Simplotan, and in some Asian countries as Sporinex.
Tinidazol – Usos
Tinidazole is an antibiotic used to treat certain types of vaginal infections (bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis). It is also used to treat certain types of parasitic infections (giardiasis, amebiasis). It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria and parasites.
There is a large body of clinical data to support the use of tinidazole for amoeba, giardia, and trichomonas infections, as is metronidazole. Tinidazole can be a therapeutic alternative in the context of tolerance to metronidazole. Tinidazole can also be used to treat a variety of other bacterial infections (eg, as part of combination therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication protocols).
This antibiotic only treats certain bacterial and parasitic infections. It will not work for viral infections (like the common cold, flu). Using any antibiotic when it is not needed can make it not work for future infections.
Tinidazole – Use and Administration
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. To prevent an upset stomach, take this medicine with food. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on weight.
For the best effect, take this antibiotic at regular intervals. To help you remember, take this medicine at the same time every day.
Continue taking this medicine until the full prescribed amount is completed, even if the symptoms disappear after a short time. Stopping the medicine too soon can cause the infection to come back. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Tinidazole – Side Effects
You may have a bitter / metallic taste in your mouth, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, or dizziness. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
This medicine can make your urine darker in color. This effect is harmless and will go away when the medicine is stopped.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine for you because he or she has determined that the benefit to you outweighs the risk of side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of a new infection (such as a sore throat that does not go away, fever), easy bruising / bleeding.
Seek medical attention right away if you have very serious side effects, including: unsteadiness, seizures, numbness / tingling in the arms / legs.
Using this medicine for long or repeated periods can lead to oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek medical attention immediately if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching / swelling (especially of the face / tongue / throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Tinidazole – Precautions
Before taking tinidazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other antibiotics (such as metronidazole); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Consult your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney dialysis, certain blood disorders (low blood cell counts).
Avoid alcoholic beverages and products containing propylene glycol while taking this medicine and for at least 3 days after you finish this medicine, as it can cause severe stomach upset / cramps, nausea, vomiting, headache, and flushing.
This medicine can make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Don’t drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires alertness until you can do it safely. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana.
Tinidazole can cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not get vaccinated / vaccinated while using this medicine, unless your doctor tells you to.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this drug should be used only when clearly needed. Its use is not recommended during the first 3 months of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. If you become pregnant or think you may be, tell your doctor immediately.
This medicine passes into breast milk and may have unwanted effects on a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.