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Buy Generic Alinia Online

A prescription is required for this item.
GENERIC ALTERNATIVE LISTING - Nitazoxanide
Dosage Pack Size & Price Qty
200mg
500mg
Brand medication is not available at this time.

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Product description medically reviewed by Dr. Ami Patel, PharmD (Apr 16, 2020) What is Alinia?

Alinia or generic Nitazoxanide is a prescription medication used to treat diarrhea—specifically, diarrhea provoked by Giardia lamblia or Cryptosporidium parvum. Those are scientific names for different types of protozoa, or teeny-tiny, one-celled organisms. Because Alinia targets these protozoa, it is part of a category of medicines dubbed "antiprotozoals."

The type of diarrhea treated by Nitazoxanide is sometimes referred to as "traveler's diarrhea" because it's often contracted while traveling in developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and/or the Middle East. Travelers or anyone else suffering from an infection of Giardia lamblia or Cryptosporidium parvum may be prescribed Alinia.

It's thought that Nitazoxanide helps treat the diarrhea caused by these protozoal infections by disrupting the protozoal cells' ability to generate energy. This impairs the parasites' ability to reproduce and survive, thereby combating their negative effects.

Nitazoxanide, which is a synthetic antiprotozoal agent, may be prescribed in tablet or liquid form. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Drugs similar to Nitazoxanide include:

Conditions treated by Alinia

As noted above, Nitazoxanide drug is used to treat a condition often referred to as "traveler's diarrhea." This is a broad term referring to cases of diarrhea caused by two particular protozoa: namely, Giardia lamblia ("Giardia" for short) or Cryptosporidium parvum ("Crypto" for short). Alinia has not been shown effective for the treatment of Crypto in patients with HIV.

Crypto often lurks in recreational and/or drinking water and is resistant to chlorine-based disinfectants. Giardia lamblia is commonly found in food, soil, water, and/or on surfaces that have been contaminated with the feces of an infected animal or person. (For this reason, gardeners sometimes contract Giardia because an infected animal defecated in their garden.)

The symptoms of having contracted these parasites may vary widely. Some people won't exhibit symptoms, while others may experience abdominal cramps, diarrhea or watery stool, and/or nausea. These symptoms may show up anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months after being infected. In some cases, the symptoms will resolve on their own; in others, people suffering from traveler's diarrhea will need to seek medical assistance and utilize prescription medications such as Nitazoxanide.

What to know before taking Alinia

Prior to using Nitazoxanide, take the following into account:

  • Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or experiencing any other medical symptoms or conditions, as Nitazoxanide may interfere with some medications.
  • If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or intend to become pregnant, ask your doctor about any potentially harmful side effects. Currently, it is unknown whether Nitazoxanide is passed through breast milk.
  • It's important to take Nitazoxanide as prescribed even if you're feeling better. (As with any antibiotic, symptoms may return if you stop taking the medication too early.) If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, consult your doctor.
  • Be aware that Alinia or Nitazoxanide generic should be taken with or shortly after eating a meal, because food may help your body absorb the medication.
  • Do not participate in any activity that requires alertness—such as driving or operating machinery—until you observe how your body responds to Nitazoxanide.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time to take your next dose. In that case, simply take the next dose and then resume a consistent dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses.

Possible Nitazoxanide side effects

As with any substance, introducing Alinia into your body has the potential to cause side effects. Possible Nitazoxanide side effects include:

Abdominal pain
Allergic reaction
Changes in appetite
Chills
Constipation
Thirst
Discolored eyes
Discolored urine
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Fever
Flatulence
Flu or flu-like symptoms
Gastroesophageal reflux
Headache
Insomnia
Muscle cramps or pain
Nausea or Vomiting
Rash

If you experience these or any other side effects, promptly consult a medical professional.

Nitazoxanide FAQs

What is the proper Alinia dosage?

Alinia tablets are typically prescribed at a dosage of 500 mg. Your doctor will most likely tell you to take Alinia or Nitazoxanide every 12 hours for three days. That being said, it's critical to follow your doctor's orders for dosage, as these instructions may vary.

What's the proper way to store Alinia?

Keep Alinia (and all other medications) out of reach of children and pets. Store Alinia or Nitazoxanide generic at room temperature and avoid exposure to excessive light, moisture, heat, or cold. Discard any unused medication after seven days. Do not discard this medication in the sink or toilet; consult your local pharmacy for proper disposal instructions.

The information provided on the NorthWestPharmacy.com website is intended to facilitate awareness about healthcare products and medical conditions generally but it is not a substitute for professional medical attention or advice. You should always speak with a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking any prescription or non-prescription drug.