What it is used for
- Giardiasis
- Amoebiasis (amoebic infections of the gut and liver)
- Trichomoniasis
- Bacterial vaginosis
How it works
Tinidazole is converted inside the parasite or bacterium into a form that damages its DNA, killing the organism. It acts on bugs that live in low-oxygen environments and is related to metronidazole but often allows shorter courses.
How it is taken
Taken as oral tablets, usually with food to reduce stomach upset, often as a single day's treatment or a short course. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and complete the course.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Metallic or bitter taste
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Stomach upset
Serious effects — get help
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet — contact your clinician
- Seizures or severe confusion — seek urgent care
- Severe allergic or skin reaction — seek emergency care
- Signs of liver problems such as yellowing skin — seek urgent care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Alcohol (can cause flushing, nausea, and vomiting — avoid during and after treatment)
- Warfarin and other blood thinners
- Lithium
- Phenytoin and phenobarbital
- Other medicines processed by the same liver enzymes
Who should take care
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for a few days after the last dose
- Tell your clinician about liver or nervous-system conditions
- Report any blood disorders
- Inform your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding (often avoided in the first trimester)
- Partners may need treatment for sexually transmitted infections