Diloxanide Furoate

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Generic Name of Diloxanide Furoate - Learn More

Diloxanide Furoate

Diloxanide Furoate Precaution - What You Need to Know

Diloxanide Furoate is primarily used to treat amoebiasis, a parasitic infection caused by *Entamoeba histolytica*. As with all medications, certain precautions should be observed when prescribing Diloxanide Furoate to ensure patient safety and maximize efficacy.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Diloxanide Furoate is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, meaning its safety in pregnant women has not been established. It should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. It is also excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication.
- Liver impairment: Caution is advised in patients with liver disease, as Diloxanide Furoate is metabolized by the liver. In cases of severe hepatic dysfunction, dosage adjustments or alternative treatments may be required.
- Renal impairment: Diloxanide Furoate has not been extensively studied in patients with renal impairment, so caution should be used in such populations. Monitoring kidney function during treatment may be warranted.
- Monitoring parameters: Patients should be monitored for signs of adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Routine liver function tests may also be recommended in patients with preexisting liver conditions.
- Misuse or dependency: Diloxanide Furoate is not habit-forming, but improper use or overuse in an attempt to treat non-amoebic conditions can result in ineffective treatment or adverse side effects.

Diloxanide Furoate Indication - Uses and Benefits

Diloxanide Furoate is indicated for the treatment of asymptomatic and symptomatic intestinal amoebiasis, particularly in cases caused by *Entamoeba histolytica*.
- Intestinal amoebiasis: Diloxanide Furoate is primarily used to treat both acute and chronic forms of intestinal amoebiasis, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
- Asymptomatic infections: It is also effective in treating asymptomatic carriers of *E. histolytica*, who may harbor the parasite without displaying overt symptoms but are still capable of spreading the infection.
- Off-label uses: Although its main indication is for amoebiasis, there is limited off-label use for other protozoal infections. However, Diloxanide Furoate is not typically used for other parasitic diseases like giardiasis or malaria.

Diloxanide Furoate Contraindications - Important Warnings

Diloxanide Furoate is contraindicated in certain patients and conditions:
- Hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Diloxanide Furoate or any component of the formulation should not use the drug.
- Severe liver impairment: Since Diloxanide Furoate is metabolized by the liver, patients with severe hepatic disease may not tolerate this medication well. Use in these patients should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
- Pregnancy (first trimester): Although Diloxanide Furoate is categorized as pregnancy category C, it should be avoided during the first trimester unless no safer alternatives are available. If used during pregnancy, it should be prescribed under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Breastfeeding: Since Diloxanide Furoate is excreted in breast milk, it is not recommended during breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Alternative treatment options may be considered.

Diloxanide Furoate Side Effects - What to Expect

Diloxanide Furoate is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects, some of which may require medical attention.
- Common side effects:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps or bloating
- Mild dizziness or headaches
- Serious side effects:
- Hepatotoxicity: In rare cases, Diloxanide Furoate can cause liver-related side effects, including liver enzyme elevation and jaundice.
- Allergic reactions: Although rare, some patients may experience hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
- Management: If gastrointestinal symptoms become severe, treatment may need to be adjusted or discontinued. Liver function should be monitored during therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing liver conditions.

Diloxanide Furoate Mode of Action - How It Works

Diloxanide Furoate works by disrupting the life cycle of the *Entamoeba histolytica* parasite, specifically targeting the trophozoite and cyst forms.
- Pharmacodynamics: After oral administration, Diloxanide Furoate is converted into its active form, diloxanide, which acts on the trophozoite stage of the parasite. It interferes with the metabolic processes of the parasite, leading to its death and thereby reducing the infection's severity and duration.
- Pharmacokinetics: Diloxanide Furoate is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and is largely metabolized in the liver. The active metabolite, diloxanide, works locally in the intestines to eradicate the parasite. The drug is excreted in the urine and feces.
- Distinctiveness: Diloxanide Furoate is specifically effective against *E. histolytica*, unlike many broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs, making it a targeted therapy for amoebiasis with minimal impact on the body’s other systems.

Diloxanide Furoate Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Diloxanide Furoate can interact with certain medications and substances, which may either reduce its efficacy or increase the risk of side effects.
- Other anti-parasitic drugs: Concurrent use of Diloxanide Furoate with other anti-parasitic agents, especially those that affect liver metabolism, may result in altered drug levels. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary if used together.
- Antacids: The effectiveness of Diloxanide Furoate can be reduced by antacids or other medications that alter the pH of the stomach, as it may affect the absorption of the drug.
- Alcohol: There is no direct interaction between Diloxanide Furoate and alcohol, but alcohol can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting, which are common with the drug. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption during treatment to avoid these side effects.
- Clinical recommendations: It is recommended to monitor for any changes in liver function, especially when Diloxanide Furoate is taken with other medications that affect liver metabolism. If any signs of liver dysfunction appear, dosage adjustments or discontinuation of the drug should be considered.

Diloxanide Furoate Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

The typical dosage for Diloxanide Furoate in adults is as follows:
- For symptomatic intestinal amoebiasis: The standard dose is 500 mg orally three times a day for 10 days.
- For asymptomatic carriers of *Entamoeba histolytica*: The recommended dose is 500 mg twice a day for 6-10 days.
- Special populations: In elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, the dose may need to be reduced or adjusted based on individual tolerance and response to treatment.
- Administration: Diloxanide Furoate is taken orally with or without food. It should be taken as prescribed, and the full course of treatment should be completed to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.

Diloxanide Furoate Child Dose - Dosage for Children

The dosage of Diloxanide Furoate in children is typically based on weight and age, with the following guidelines:
- For children aged 2-12 years: The recommended dose is 10-15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses daily. The typical treatment duration is 6-10 days, depending on the severity of the infection.
- Children under 2 years old: The safety and efficacy of Diloxanide Furoate in children younger than 2 have not been established. It is advised to avoid using the drug in this age group unless recommended by a healthcare provider.
- Special considerations: Pediatric patients should be monitored closely for any signs of gastrointestinal disturbances or allergic reactions during treatment. As with adults, the full course of therapy should be completed.

Diloxanide Furoate Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

Although Diloxanide Furoate is primarily metabolized by the liver, it is important to consider renal function when prescribing to patients with kidney disease.
- Renal impairment: There are no specific dosage adjustments recommended for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. However, in severe renal impairment, the drug should be used with caution, and monitoring for side effects is advised.
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring of renal function and electrolyte levels may be warranted in patients with significant renal dysfunction, particularly if the patient has other comorbid conditions that could affect kidney function.