Alinia belongs to a group of medications called Antiprotozoals. It is used to treat diarrhea that is caused by a certain type of protozoa (one-celled animals).
Once a medication has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also helpful for other medical problems. These uses may not be listed in product labeling.
However, these medications are also used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:
Intestinal parasitic infections
This medication is only available with your doctor’s prescription.
This medication is available in the following forms:
As with all medicines, the risks of using Alinia must be compared to how much this medication will help you. This is a decision that you and your doctor will make together.
For this medication, there are many things that need to be considered:
Allergies - Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Doxorubicin or to any other medications. It is also important to inform your doctor of any non-medicine allergies such as foods, dyes, preservatives or animals.
Pediatric - Up-to-date Pediatric Appropriate studies have not indicated any problems that would limit the use of this medication.
Geriatric - No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in elderly patients. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Pregnancy - This medication is listed as Pregnancy Category B. This means that animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the unborn baby, however there are are no studies in pregnant women OR animal studies have showed an adverse affect to the unborn baby, but studies in pregnant women have not shown a risk to the unborn baby.
Breastfeeding - There are no up-to-date studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication while breastfeeding. Weigh the potential risks with the benefits before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions - Certain medications should not be used together. However, in certain cases, two medications may be used together, even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change your dose or take other precautions.
When taking this medication, it is important that you inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over the counter medications.
Other Interactions - Certain medications should not be used while eating, or while eating certain foods in case of negative interactions. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medications may also cause negative interactions. Talk with your doctor about the use of your medication with food, alcohol or tobacco.
Other Medical Problems - Pre-existing medical problems may affect the use of this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
Biliary (gallbladder) disease
Immune deficiency condition, including HIV or AIDS
Kidney disease
Liver disease - It is not known how this medication will effect these conditions and it should be used with caution.
Diabetes Mellitus - The oral suspension of Nitazoxanide contains 1.48 grams of sucrose per 5 millilitres.
3 Proper Usage
Only take Alinia as directed by your doctor. Do not take more, less or for a longer or shorter period of time than your doctor tells you.
It is important to take this medication with food.
It is important to shake the oral suspension form of this medication well before each dose.
For the oral suspension form, use a specially marked measuring syringe or spoon to measure each dose accurately. The average household teaspoon may not hold the right amount of liquid.
Dosing
Different patients will be given a different dose of this medication based on the strength of the medication. The number of doses you take each day, the time between doses and the length of time you take this medication depends on the reason you are taking this medication.
The following information only includes the average dose of this medication. If your dose is different, do not change it without first speaking to your doctor.
Oral Suspension
Adults and children 12 years of age or older - 25mL every 12 hours for 3 days
Children 4-11 years of age - 10mL every 12 hours for 3 days.
Children 1-4 years of age - 5mL every 12 hours for 3 days
Tablets
Adults and children 12 years of age and older - 500mg every 12 hours for 3 days
Children 11 years of age and younger - Tablet form is not for use in children.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double dose.
Storage
Store this medication in a closed container at room temperature. Keep it away form heat, moisture and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep expired medication or medication you no longer need. Ask your doctor how to dispose of any medication you do not use.
4 Precautions To Take
Before using Alinia, there are some precautions you must take. It is very important that your doctor checks you at regular visits.
If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
Alinia may produce unwanted affects along with the intended effects. Although not all of these side-effects may occur, if they do occur, they may need medical attention.
Some side effects that may occur do not normally need medical attention. These may leave as your body becomes accustomed to treatment. Ask your doctor about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Talk to your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome, or if you have questions:
Your FindaTopDoc account is completely free. Find doctors & request online appointments. Participate in Health Journeys in over 100 specialty communities. Easy & secure access! Simple Facebook login.
FindATopDoc is a trusted resource for patients to find the top doctors in their area. Be visible and accessible with your up to date contact
information, certified patients reviews and online appointment booking functionality.
