What Are The Treatments For Giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an infection caused by the presence of one-celled protozoal organisms in the small intestine. These parasites cause diarrhea, cramping, nausea, weight loss and dehydration. They can form cysts, which are expelled in feces. Exposure to the cysts from human or animal feces is the main route of transmission. There are several treatments for giardiasis.

Metronidazole

Metronidazole is frequently prescribed for the treatment of giardiasis. The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" explains that, although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved metronidazole for this use, it is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Typical adult dosage is 250 mg, taken three times a day for a week. Common side effects include dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, dizziness, headache and an unsteady gait. Patients are cautioned to avoid consuming alcohol while taking metronidazole, and within three days of the last dose.

Tinidazole

Tinidazole is indicated for the treatment of giardiasis. The typical adult dose is 2 gm taken one time. Common side effects include a brief reduction in white blood cells and the occurrence of candida, a yeast infection, which would require treatment with an antifungal agent.

Furazolidone

Furazolidone is another oral treatment for giardiasis. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that furazolidone is often prescribed to children between the ages of one month and five years of age. It may also be given to older children and adults. The typical adult dosage is 100 mg, which is taken four times a day for a week to ten days. A common side effect is dark urine. MayoClinic.com indicates that people should not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, or within four days of the last dose. They should also avoid eating hard cheeses, fermented foods, aged foods and overripe fruit while taking furazolidone, or within two weeks of the last dose. Other foods may also produce severe interactions; the treating physician or pharmacist should be queried about foods to avoid.