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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Diloxanide

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Diloxanide

  • Diloxanide is used for amoebic infections of the bowel.
  • Even though you may not be experiencing any symptoms, it is important that you complete the 10-day course.
  • In order to prevent re-infection, wash your hands and scrub your nails thoroughly before each meal and after each visit to the toilet.

About diloxanide

Type of medicineAmoebicide
Used forAmoebiasis
Also calledDiloxanide furoate
Available asTablets

Diloxanide is used to treat Entamoeba histolytica, an amoebic infection of the digestive tract. It works by having an effect in the bowel, although exactly how is not fully understood.

Before taking diloxanide

Before taking diloxanide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take diloxanide

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • You must take each dose of diloxanide at the same times each day. Diloxanide is usually taken three times a day.
  • You must complete the 10-day course of diloxanide. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking your doses at the usual times. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Important: wash your hands and scrub your nails thoroughly before each meal and after each visit to the toilet, to prevent re-infection.

Can diloxanide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Being sickEat little and often. Stick to simple foods
Flatulence (wind), skin rash and itchingThese effects are usually mild

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store diloxanide

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 3757DocRef: dils3756Last Reviewed: 20 Jul 2009Version: 22
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