Antiamoebic Drugs: Classification, Mechanism, Uses, Adverse Effects, Dosage, Contraindications & Drug Interactions

 ANTIAMOEBIC DRUGS

1. Definition

• Drugs used to treat Amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica.

2. Classification

A. Tissue Amebicides: Metronidazole, Tinidazole, Secnidazole
B. Luminal Amebicides: Diloxanide furoate
C. Mixed: Metronidazole + Diloxanide

3. Major Drugs

a. Metronidazole / Tinidazole / Secnidazole

• MOA: Forms toxic free radicals → damages DNA.
• Use: Amoebiasis, Giardiasis, Trichomoniasis.
• Adverse: Metallic taste, nausea, disulfiram-like reaction with alcohol.
• Dose: 400–800 mg TDS × 7–10 days.
• Contraindication: Pregnancy (1st trimester).
• Interaction: Alcohol, warfarin.

b. Diloxanide Furoate

• MOA: Acts locally in intestine.
• Use: Chronic intestinal amoebiasis.
• Adverse: Flatulence, nausea.
• Dose: 500 mg TDS × 10 days.

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1. Antimicrobials Made Simple: Mechanism, Resistance, and Smart Usage

2. Chapters in Pharmacology