Alinia Information:

Alinia (generic name: Nitazoxanide) is a drug which is prescribed for the treatment of diarrhea in adults and children caused by the protozoa Giardia lamblia. Nitazoxanide is also used to treat diarrhea caused by the protozoa Cryptosporidium parvum. These conditions are also sometimes referred to as travelers' diarrhea. Giardia lamblia (intestinalis) is a single celled animal, i.e., a protozoa, that moves with the aid of five flagella. In Europe, it is sometimes referred to as Lamblia intestinalis. The disease mechanism is unknown, with some investigators reporting that the organism produces a toxin while others are unable to confirm its existence. Cryptosporidium parvum is a protozoan and an obligate intracellular parasite (a parasite that cannot survive without a host) that commonly causes an opportunistic infection in immunocompromised hosts. Cryptosporidiasis, a diarrheal disease is characterized by watery diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dehydration, abdominal cramps and fever. Symptoms usually resolve in 2-4 weeks in immunocompetent hosts. Cryptosporidiosis can also manifest as pulmonary or tracheal disease, causing cough and fever. However, these patients also manifest with the intestinal component of the disease.

Alinia Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Alinia including abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and headache. If you experience any side effects you must seek immediate medical attention for safety.

Alinia Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed it you, and there will also be dosage and information on the pack. Alinia comes in liquid form and should be taken with food. Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the suspension with a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Store the suspension at room temperature. The suspension may be stored for 7 days, after which any unused portion must be discarded. Alinia should be stored at room temperature away from direct light and heat.

Alinia Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Alinia you should not take it, and should inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney disease or HIV/AIDs. Many drugs may affect the way that nitazoxanide is metabolized ("broken down") in the body, leading to higher or lower than expected levels of the medication in the blood. Talk to your doctor before taking any other medicines during treatment with nitazoxanide. You should also inform you doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Alinia may cause harm to your baby.