Diloxanide%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520furoate

# Diloxanide Furoate ## Overview Diloxanide furoate is an amebicide used to treat intestinal amebiasis. Its mechanism of action is not fully understood but is thought to involve disruption of parasitic protein synthesis. ## Primary Indications * Asymptomatic intestinal amebiasis (luminal amebicide). * Treatment of mild to moderate intestinal amebiasis. ## Adult Dosing * **Usual dose:** 500 mg orally every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days. * **Maximum dose:** Not specified, but prolonged or repeated courses may be necessary. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Children 1-12 years:** 10 mg/kg orally every 8 hours for 7 to 10 days, not to exceed the adult dose. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are recommended for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Known hypersensitivity to diloxanide furoate. * Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic or renal disease. ## Adverse Effects * Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea. * Other: Flatulence, pruritus, rash, urticaria. ## Key Drug Interactions No significant drug interactions are established. ## Monitoring * Monitor for signs and symptoms of amebiasis, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. * Assess for resolution of infection and potential recurrence. ## Clinical Pearls * Diloxanide furoate is primarily effective against the luminal trophozoite and cyst forms of *Entamoeba histolytica*. * It is often used in combination with other agents (e.g., metronidazole) for invasive amebiasis or amebic liver abscess. * Ensure adequate hydration and nutritional support during treatment. *** *This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information with the official drug labeling and relevant guidelines before dispensing or administering any medication.*