Tinidazole

Tinidazole is an anti-parasitic drug used against protozoan infections. It is widely known throughout Europe and the developing world as treatment for a variety of amoebic and parasitic infections. It is chemically similar to Metronidazole — a drug with some unpleasant side effects that is used in the United States as first-line therapy for amoebae. Tinidazole has similar side effects but has a shorter treatment course.

Tinidazole is FDA approved for the treatment of trichomoniasis, giardiasis and amebiasis. A large body of clinical data exists to support its use as a treatment for amoebae, giardia and vaginal trichomona, just like metronidazole. Tinidazole may be a therapeutic alternative in the setting of metronidazole tolerance.

Tinidazole may also be used to treat or prevent a variety of bacterial infections, including Helicobacter pylori.

Tinidazole is marketed by Mission Pharmacal under the brand name Tindamax®, and by Pfizer under the name Fasigyn®.

Side Effects
The most common side effects reported with tinidazole are upset stomach, bitter taste, and itchiness. Other side effects which occur are headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Anecdotally, people who have taken both Flagyl and tinidazole report toxicity is much the same except the side effects don't last as long. Note: drinking alcohol while taking tinidazole will make you violently ill.

Half Life
Elimination half-life is 13.2 ± 1.4 hours. Plasma half-life is 12 to 14 hours.