Furoxone (furazolidone)
Furoxone, the generic name of which is furazolidone, is a synthetic antimicrobial nitrofuran. It is a broad- spectrum antibiotic which works against many gram- positive and gram- negative bacteria. It is active against many gastrointestinal tract pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Shigella, Aerobacter aerogenes, Proteus, Vibrio cholera as well as Giardia lamblia. The best thing about this drug is that it has very less side- effects.
Dosage
The dosage of Furoxone (furazolidone) can vary depending on the specific infection being treated, the severity of the infection, and individual factors. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions or the directions on the prescription label. The typical dosage recommendations for Furoxone are as follows:
For adults:
- Bacterial gastroenteritis: The usual dosage is 100 mg taken orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.
- Giardiasis: The recommended dosage is 100 mg taken orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.
- Other infections: The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific infection being treated. It is determined by the healthcare provider and should be followed carefully.
For children:
- The dosage for children will depend on their age, weight, and the specific infection being treated. It is determined by the healthcare provider and should be followed carefully.
Uses
Furoxone is indicated as a symptomatic treatment of bacterial as well as protozoal diarrhea and enteritis.
Side-effects
Side-effects are very rare with Furoxone. And if they occur, they are very mild and correct as soon as the use of tablet is discontinued. The potential side-effects are:
- Hypersensitivity reactions may sometimes occur that may manifest as drastic fall in blood pressure, fever, utricaria, avesicular morbilliform rashes and arthralgia. If these symptoms occur, you must withdraw the use of the drug. The symptoms will then subside.
- Mild nausea
- Mild emesis
- Headache
- Malaise
- One rare side-effect with this drug is a typical Antabus® (disulfiram)- like reaction to alcohol. This side-effect manifests as flushing, dyspnea, slight elevation in temperature and rarely constriction in the chest.
One thing to note about Furoxone (furazolidone) is that it may lead to mild reversible intravascular hemolysis. But, this condition occurs only in Negroes, people of Mediterranean and Near-Eastern origin.
Contraindications
Furoxone is contraindicated in many situations and conditions. It must not be given to:
- Infants under one month of age. If it is given to younger infants, it may lead to hemolytic anemia in early neonatal period.
- Due to the Antabus® (disulfiram) like reaction, alcohol must not be taken during and within 4 days after taking Furoxone therapy.
- M.O. drugs, indirectly- acting sympathomimetic amines and tyramine- containing foods must be prohibited from use if you are taking Furoxone.
- You must not take Furoxone if you are already sensitive to Furoxone or any other active ingredient of this drug.
Pregnancy and Furoxone
There has not been any study or evidence of any sort of effect of Furoxone on the women who are in their child- bearing age. The effect of this drug on pregnancy and unborn infant is still not known. There is no evidence of any teratogenicity or any side- effect on the fetus or the baby. But, to be on a safer side, you must consult your doctor and discuss the potential side- effects of this drug on the baby. Tell your doctor if you are already pregnant or are deciding to become mother during the course of treatment.
If you are a feeding mother, you must tell this to your doctor. It is not if this drug passes into the breast milk and affect the newborn child.
Some frequently asked questions about Furazolidone
What is furazolidone?
Furazolidone is an antibiotic medication that belongs to the nitrofuran class. It is used to treat certain bacterial and protozoal infections.
How does furazolidone work?
Furazolidone works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria and protozoa. It interferes with their ability to produce proteins and enzymes necessary for their survival, leading to their elimination.
What conditions can furazolidone treat?
Furazolidone is commonly used to treat bacterial gastroenteritis caused by susceptible organisms, including certain strains of Salmonella, Shigella, and Escherichia coli. It is also effective against Giardia lamblia, a protozoan parasite that causes giardiasis.
How is furazolidone taken?
Furazolidone is taken orally with food to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions or the directions on the prescription label. The medication should be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed.
Can furazolidone be used by children?
Furazolidone can be prescribed to children, and the dosage will be determined by their age, weight, and the specific infection being treated. The healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for children.
Can furazolidone interact with other medications?
Furazolidone may interact with certain medications, including antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and certain cough and cold medications. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.What are the common side effects of furazolidone?
Common side effects of furazolidone may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, and dizziness. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
Can furazolidone be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The use of furazolidone during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. The potential risks and benefits should be evaluated based on individual circumstances.
How long does furazolidone take to work?
The time it takes for furazolidone to work can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection being treated. In general, improvement in symptoms is usually observed within a few days of starting the medication. However, it is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Can I consume alcohol while taking furazolidone?
It is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking furazolidone. Alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects such as dizziness, headache, and upset stomach.
Can furazolidone be used for viral or fungal infections?
No, furazolidone is only effective against certain bacterial and protozoal infections. It should not be used to treat viral or fungal infections. It is important to use the medication only for the specific purpose it is prescribed for.
