Zox 500 mg

Description

Indications
Zox is indicated for the treatment of diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia lamblia, and Entamoeba histolytica.

Pharmacology
Nitazoxanide is a synthetic antiprotozoal agent that interferes with the Pyruvate Ferredoxin Oxido Reductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction essential for anaerobic energy metabolism in protozoa. Nitazoxanide and its active metabolite, Tizoxanide, inhibit the growth of Cryptosporidium parvum sporozoites and oocysts, as well as Giardia lamblia trophozoites.

Dosage & Administration

• Age 1-3 years: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) suspension every 12 hours for 3 days.
• Age 4-11 years: 2 teaspoons (10 ml) suspension every 12 hours for 3 days.
• Age 12 years and above: 5 teaspoons (25 ml) suspension or 1 tablet every 12 hours for 3 days.
  Administer with food for optimal absorption.

Interaction
Nitazoxanide is highly protein-bound, so caution should be exercised when co-administering with other highly protein-bound drugs with narrow therapeutic indices.

Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Nitazoxanide or any of its components.

Side Effects

• Common: Abdominal pain, vomiting, and headache (usually mild and transient).
• Rare: Nausea, anorexia, flatulence, increased appetite, dizziness, discolored urine, increased creatinine or SGPT levels, pruritus, rhinitis, enlarged salivary glands, and sweating.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Category B (no adequate human studies; use only if clearly needed).
• Lactation: Nitazoxanide is excreted in human milk; caution is advised when administering during lactation.

Precautions & Warnings
Administer with caution in patients with hepatic, biliary, or renal disease.

Therapeutic Class
Anti-diarrhoeal Antiprotozoal

Storage Conditions
Store in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.