Diloxanide
Diloxanide is an antiprotozoal medication primarily used to treat intestinal amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica. It is particularly effective for eliminating the parasite in the intestinal lumen and is commonly used to treat asymptomatic cyst carriers. This medication is often prescribed after treatment with metronidazole for complete eradication of the infection.
Diloxanide is a luminal amoebicide used to treat intestinal infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica, particularly for asymptomatic carriers.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- P01AC01
- RxNorm
- 67182
- Generic
- Diloxanide
- Class
- atc-p01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of intestinal amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica, including asymptomatic cyst carriers and mild to moderate forms of amoebic dysentery. Often used as follow-up therapy after metronidazole treatment for invasive amoebiasis.
As a luminal amoebicide, diloxanide acts directly in the intestinal lumen. It interferes with protozoal metabolism and protein synthesis, though the exact mechanism is not fully characterized. It has minimal absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to exert its effect primarily where intestinal amoebae reside.
Typically administered orally as diloxanide furoate. Side effects may include flatulence, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. May cause mild-to-moderate CNS effects in some patients. Patients should complete the full course of treatment as prescribed. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should use with caution. Often used in combination therapy regimens for optimal eradication of amoebic infections.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy