Furazolidone Antibiotic: Uses, Dosage, and Treatment Guidelines

Summary of Key Points

Furazolidone is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial and protozoal infections, including giardiasis, amoebiasis, and bacterial diarrhea. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and parasites. Typically prescribed for short-term use, it is important to take this medication exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before starting or adjusting your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with us for personalized care.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Furoxone

Generic Name: Furazolidone

The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. The generic name is listed in parentheses.

Pharmacologic Category

Antibacterial (Nitrofuran derivative)

Antiprotozoal

Furazolidone Dosage and Treatment Guidelines

Furazolidone is used to treat a range of infections. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. If needed, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with us for immediate care.

Furazolidone Dosage for Giardiasis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.

Furazolidone Dosage for Amoebiasis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.

Furazolidone for Bacterial Diarrhea

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.

Furazolidone Dosage for Enteritis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.

Furazolidone for Cholera

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.

Furazolidone Dosage for Typhoid Fever

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.

Furazolidone for Salmonellosis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.

Furazolidone Dosage for Shigellosis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.

Furazolidone for Cryptosporidiosis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 5 to 7 days.

Furazolidone Dosage for Trichomoniasis

Dosage: 100 mg orally four times daily for 7 to 10 days.

Dosage Forms and Strengths of Furazolidone

Tablet: 100 mg

How to Take Furazolidone Safely

Take Furazolidone orally with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. Be sure to take the medication at evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent levels in your bloodstream. Do not skip doses, and complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.

Furazolidone Contraindications

A contraindication is a condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the conditions listed below, Furazolidone may not be safe for you. Always inform your healthcare provider about your full medical history before starting any new medication.

Allergy to Furazolidone: If you are allergic to Furazolidone or any of its ingredients, taking this medication could trigger a severe allergic reaction, which may include rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Furazolidone is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Taking it with other MAOIs can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as high blood pressure or serotonin syndrome.

Severe Liver or Kidney Disease: Furazolidone is processed by the liver and kidneys. If you have severe liver or kidney disease, your body may not clear the drug properly, leading to potentially toxic levels in your system.

Pregnancy (Third Trimester): Furazolidone is generally not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential risks to the baby (see more in the pregnancy section below).

G6PD Deficiency: Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency may experience hemolytic anemia (a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced) when taking Furazolidone.

Furazolidone Drug Interactions

Furazolidone can interact with several medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products.

Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with Furazolidone.

Sympathomimetics: Medications like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) can cause dangerously high blood pressure when combined with Furazolidone.

Antihypertensives: Drugs like methyldopa (Aldomet) or clonidine (Catapres) may have their effects altered by Furazolidone, potentially leading to changes in blood pressure control.

Opioids: Pain medications such as meperidine (Demerol) or tramadol (Ultram) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with Furazolidone.

Other MAOIs: Medications like phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate) should not be taken with Furazolidone, as they can lead to severe side effects, including dangerously high blood pressure.

Furazolidone in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Furazolidone when pregnant?

Furazolidone is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. There is limited information available regarding its safety in pregnant women, and it may pose risks to the developing baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to determine whether Furazolidone is a suitable option for you. Our telemedicine providers can assist you in exploring safer alternatives if needed.

Furazolidone while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Furazolidone while breastfeeding?

There is not enough research to confirm whether Furazolidone passes into breast milk or if it could affect a nursing infant. Due to this uncertainty, it is generally advised to avoid using Furazolidone while breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss safer treatment options. Our telemedicine providers are available to help guide you through this decision.

Estimated Cost of Furazolidone Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Furazolidone without insurance, when using a GoodRx coupon, typically ranges from $25 to $40. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and your location. Be sure to check GoodRx or other discount programs for the most current pricing information on Furazolidone.

Possible Alternatives to Furazolidone

If Furazolidone is not the right option for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage the conditions it treats. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are here to help you explore these alternatives.

Giardiasis

Alternative treatments include metronidazole (Flagyl), tinidazole (Tindamax), or nitazoxanide (Alinia). Practicing good hygiene and avoiding contaminated water sources can also help prevent reinfection.

Amoebiasis

Common alternatives include metronidazole (Flagyl) or paromomycin (Humatin). Improving sanitation and ensuring access to safe drinking water are key preventive measures.

Bacterial Diarrhea

Depending on the underlying cause, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or azithromycin (Zithromax) may be prescribed. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also aid in managing symptoms.

Enteritis

Treatment may involve antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or supportive care, including rehydration and dietary adjustments.

Cholera

Doxycycline or azithromycin (Zithromax) are commonly used to treat cholera. Oral rehydration solutions and improved sanitation are essential for managing and preventing the spread of cholera.

Typhoid Fever

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or azithromycin (Zithromax) are frequently used alternatives. Vaccination and avoiding contaminated food and water are important strategies for preventing typhoid fever.

Salmonellosis

Most cases resolve without the need for antibiotics, but severe cases may require treatment with ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or azithromycin (Zithromax). Proper food handling and hygiene practices can help prevent infection.

Shigellosis

Azithromycin (Zithromax) or ciprofloxacin (Cipro) are often prescribed. Good hygiene and avoiding contaminated water are important steps to prevent reinfection.

Cryptosporidiosis

Nitazoxanide (Alinia) is a common alternative treatment. Drinking safe water and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

Trichomoniasis

Metronidazole (Flagyl) or tinidazole (Tindamax) are commonly used to treat trichomoniasis. Practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms, can help prevent reinfection.

Recent Updates on Furazolidone Research

Recent studies have investigated Furazolidone’s potential in treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, particularly in areas where other antibiotics are less effective. Ongoing research aims to better understand Furazolidone’s safety profile, especially in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, there is growing interest in exploring Furazolidone’s role in combating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. While these findings are promising, further research is needed before new recommendations can be made. If you have questions about the latest research or whether Furazolidone is appropriate for your condition, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss your treatment options.

James Kingsley

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