DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Generic name: Nitazoxanide
Brand names: Alinia

Why is Alinia prescribed?

Alinia is used to treat children with infectious diarrhea caused by the organisms Cryptosporidium parvum or Giardia lamblia. It is prescribed for children 1 year old and older. For infectious diarrhea caused by the organism Cryptosporidium parvum only the oral suspension form of Alinia should be used to treat children 1 to 11 years old.

Infectious diarrhea is marked by abnormal bowel habits, including increased stool frequency, as well as watery stools. It is normally caused by contaminated food or water.

Most important fact about Alinia

The safety and effectiveness of Alinia have not been studied in children less than 12 months old. The tablets contain a greater amount of the drug than the oral suspension and should not be used in children under 11 years old. The drug has also not been studied in adults or people with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV or AIDS.

How should you take Alinia?

Be sure to give Alinia with food. Shake the oral suspension vigorously before you give each dose. The oral suspension will keep for 7 days. After this time any unused solution must be thrown away.

If your child misses a dose...

Give the forgotten dose with food as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your child's next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store the tablets or oral suspension at room temperature. Keep the bottles tightly closed.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for your child to continue using Alinia.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea

Why should Alinia not be prescribed?

Alinia should not be given to children who have an allergic reaction to the drug. It should also not be taken by children less than 12 months old or greater than 11 years old. In addition, Alinia should not be used by adults or people with kidney or liver problems or with weakened immune systems, including those with HIV or AIDS.

Special warnings about Alinia

If your child has diabetes, you should be aware that Alinia contains about 1 teaspoon of sugar per dose.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Alinia

If Alinia is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is important to check with your doctor before combining Alinia with other drugs your child is taking.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Alinia has not been adequately studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS AND CHILDREN

Giardia lamblia

Ages 1 to 3 years old: The recommended dosage of oral suspension is 1 teaspoon every 12 hours for 3 days.

Ages 4 to 11 years old: The recommended dosage of oral suspension is 2 teaspoons every 12 hours for 3 days.

Ages 12 years and older: The recommended dosage is 5 teaspoons of oral suspension or one 500-milligram tablet every 12 hours for 3 days.

Cryptosporidium parvum

Ages 1 to 3 years old: The recommended dosage of oral suspension is 1 teaspoon every 12 hours for 3 days.

Ages 4 to 11 years old: The recommended dosage of oral suspension is 2 teaspoons every 12 hours for 3 days.

This drug's safety and effectiveness have not been studied for treating diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium parvum in children 12 years and older or in adults.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.