Diloxanide Furoate

Generic Name

Diloxanide-furoate

Other Names

• Furamide
• Entamide

Drug Class

• Antiprotozoal agent

Chemical Formula

C18H22N2O5

Molecular Weight

346.38 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Inhibits the pyruvate-ferredoxin oxidoreductase enzyme in amoebae

Indications

• Treatment of asymptomatic cyst passers of Entamoeba histolytica
• Amoebic dysentery

Common Dosage Forms

• Tablet
• Suspension

Typical Dosage

• 500 mg three times a day for 10 days

Pediatric Dosage

• Dose adjustment based on weight and age

Geriatric Dosage

• May require lower doses due to reduced kidney function

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Skin rashes

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to diloxanide-furoate
• Severe hepatic impairment

Pregnancy Category

• Category B - No evidence of risk in humans

Lactation Safety

• Compatible with breastfeeding, minimal risk to the infant

Drug Interactions

• No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

• Not well-defined

Antidote for Overdose

• No specific antidote, symptomatic treatment

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract
• Distribution: Enters systemic circulation and distribution throughout the body
• Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
• Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine

Precautions

• Monitor liver function tests during treatment

Warnings

• Discontinue if signs of liver toxicity occur

Others

• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare provider