Giardiasis - Treating giardiasis
- Introduction
- Symptoms of giardiasis
- Causes of giardiasis
- Treating giardiasis
- Preventing giardiasis
- 'My advice to travellers is to watch what you eat and drink'
Giardiasis can usually be successfully treated with medicines that kill the parasites responsible for the infection.
Metronidazole
Most commonly, an antibiotic called metronidazole is used.
It is usually taken in tablet form (orally). The recommended course of treatment will depend on factors such as your age and body weight, but it can range from a three- to 10-day course.
Your GP or pharmacist will be able to give more detailed instructions for your individual circumstances.
Metronidazole is well tolerated in adults and children. Serious side effects are relatively rare.
The most commonly reported side effects are usually mild ones affecting the digestive system, such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- stomach pain
Metronidazole can also cause dizziness and drowsiness (see below).
Tinidazole
A medicine called tinidazole is sometimes used as an alternative to metronidazole.
Most people only need one dose of tinidazole. Like metronidazole, tinidazole can have an adverse effect on the digestive system. Side effects include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea
- stomach pain or cramps
- headache
- tiredness
- unpleasant metallic taste in your mouth
- darkening of your urine
See giardiasis medicines information for more information about metronidazole and tinidazole.
Cautions
On rare occasions, some people feel dizzy or sleepy while they're taking metronidazole. If this happens to you, avoid driving or using power tools or machinery.
Don't drink alcohol while taking metronidazole or tinidazole, or for 48 hours after finishing your dose. Mixing alcohol with these types of medication can make the side effects worse.
Metronidazole should be used with caution if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, as advised by your GP.
If you're diagnosed with giardiasis, other members of your household may be advised to have treatment. This may be recommended as a precautionary measure just in case they've also been infected. Your GP will be able to tell you if treatment is necessary.
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