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# Diloxanide furoate
## Overview
Diloxanide furoate is an amoebicide used to treat intestinal amoebiasis. Its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.
## Primary Indications
* Asymptomatic amoebiasis (intestinal amoeba cysts).
* Diloxanide furoate is often used as a luminal amoebicide, typically after treatment of invasive amoebiasis with agents that achieve tissue penetration.
## Adult Dosing
* **Asymptomatic amoebiasis:** 500 mg orally three times daily for 10 days.
## Pediatric Dosing
Dosing is weight-based. The exact dose may vary based on local guidelines and product availability.
* **Asymptomatic amoebiasis:** 5-10 mg/kg orally three times daily for 10 days. Maximum daily dose not to exceed 500 mg.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment, though caution is advised in severe disease.
## Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to diloxanide furoate or any component of the formulation.
## Adverse Effects
Common adverse effects include:
* Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea)
* Rash
* Pruritus
* Headache
## Key Drug Interactions
No significant drug interactions are well-documented.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for resolution of symptoms and eradication of cysts in stool, particularly in children or immunocompromised individuals.
## Clinical Pearls
* Diloxanide furoate is primarily active against luminal trophozoites and cysts of *Entamoeba histolytica*.
* It is not effective for invasive amoebiasis affecting tissues outside the intestine.
* Compliance with the full 10-day course is crucial for effective treatment.
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*Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines before making treatment decisions. Local protocols may dictate specific dosing strategies.*
