Diloxanide

About Diloxanide

This belongs to the group of medicines known as amoebicides.

Diloxanide is used to treat entamoeba histolytica, an infection of the digestive tract.

Diloxanide is available in tablet form.

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 have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Diloxanide

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• You must take each dose of diloxanide at the same time each day.
• You must complete the 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, leave out the missed dose; never take two doses at the same time to compensate. If in doubt speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of diloxanide contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside diloxanide.
• 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 symptoms, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.

Flatulence (excessive wind), vomiting (being sick) or an itchy skin rash.

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

How to store Diloxanide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 21/10/2003