Tinidazole (tye-NYE-da-zole)

Treats infections caused by protozoa (including trichomoniasis, giardiasis, and amebiasis). Also treats vaginal infections caused by bacteria.

Brand Name(s):

Tindamax

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk. Taking this medicine with food will help you avoid having stomach discomfort or upset.
• Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
• If you cannot swallow the tablet, it may be crushed in artificial cherry syrup. Shake this mixture well before drinking. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may store the oral liquid (crushed tablets in artificial cherry syrup) at room temperature up to 7 days.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use this medicine if you have taken disulfiram within the last 2 weeks. Do not drink alcohol or use medicine that contains alcohol or propylene glycol while using this medicine and for at least 3 days after treatment.
• Some foods and medicines can affect how tinidazole works. Tell your doctor if you are using cholestyramine, cimetidine, cyclosporine, fluorouracil, fosphenytoin, ketoconazole, lithium, oxytetracycline, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, tacrolimus, or a blood thinner (including warfarin).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of blood disease.
• Do not breastfeed while using this medicine. Wait at least 3 days after you stop taking this medicine before you breastfeed.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Possible risk for cancer (with long-term use)
  • Peripheral neuropathy (nerve problem) and seizures
  • Increased risk for vaginal yeast infection
• Trichomoniasis treatment: Your doctor may want to also treat your sexual partner, even if he or she has no symptoms. Also, you may want to use a condom during sexual intercourse. These measures will help keep you from getting the infection back again from your partner. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
• Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children. Some men who use this medicine have become infertile (unable to have children).
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
• Seizures
• Vaginal swelling, itching, or discharge

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• Dizziness, headache
• Loss of appetite
• Metallic or bitter taste
• Tiredness or weakness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088