Description

Description

Entamizole (250/200mg) is a combination oral medication manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, formulated to help treat intestinal amoebiasis and related parasitic infections. Each pack contains 30 tablets, and every tablet brings together two active substances, Diloxanide Furoate and Metronidazole, that work through complementary mechanisms to address different stages of amoebic infection. Diloxanide Furoate primarily acts against the amoebic cysts residing within the intestinal lumen, while Metronidazole works against the actively invasive form of the parasite, making the combination useful for addressing both the visible infection and the underlying cause more comprehensively. This dual-action approach is intended to reduce the likelihood of infection persisting or recurring compared to treatment with a single agent alone. Entamizole should only be used under medical supervision, with the exact treatment plan, including dosage and duration, determined by a qualified physician based on the confirmed diagnosis and severity of infection.

Ingredients

Each tablet of Entamizole (250/200mg) contains Diloxanide Furoate 250mg, an amoebicide that acts primarily within the intestinal lumen to eliminate amoebic cysts, together with Metronidazole 200mg, an antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent that works by disrupting the DNA of susceptible organisms, including the invasive form of the amoeba responsible for tissue infection. These two active substances complement one another by targeting different aspects of the amoebic life cycle. The tablet also contains standard pharmaceutical excipients such as binders, fillers, and coating agents that support tablet stability, appearance, and shelf life without contributing any therapeutic effect of their own.

Dosage Form

Entamizole is available as an oral tablet, with each pack containing 30 tablets. This tablet form allows for convenient, consistent dosing of both active ingredients together, as directed by a treating physician.

Uses

Entamizole (250/200mg) is primarily used for the treatment of intestinal amoebiasis, a parasitic infection of the digestive tract that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and in some cases, more significant gastrointestinal disturbance. By combining an agent effective against amoebic cysts with one effective against the actively invasive form of the parasite, this medicine is intended to provide more thorough treatment coverage than a single-agent approach. It may also be used for certain other protozoal or anaerobic bacterial infections as determined by a treating physician based on diagnostic findings.

How to Use

Entamizole should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor, typically for a defined course of treatment rather than an open-ended duration, and is generally taken with food to help reduce the likelihood of stomach discomfort. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be crushed or chewed unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full prescribed course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the course is finished, as stopping early may allow the infection to persist or recur. Alcohol should be strictly avoided during treatment and for a period afterward, as combining alcohol with Metronidazole can cause an unpleasant reaction involving symptoms such as flushing, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time of the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped rather than doubled.

Side Effects

Entamizole may cause side effects in some individuals, though not everyone experiences them. Commonly reported effects include nausea, metallic taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as stomach upset or diarrhea. Less commonly, some individuals may experience dizziness, headache, or dark-colored urine, which is generally harmless but can be discussed with a doctor if concerning. Because Metronidazole can interact significantly with alcohol, avoiding alcoholic beverages throughout treatment is important to prevent adverse reactions. Any severe or persistent symptoms, signs of nerve-related effects such as numbness or tingling with prolonged use, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash or facial swelling require prompt medical attention. This list is not exhaustive, and a healthcare provider should be consulted for a complete understanding of possible reactions.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Entamizole is generally not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy, and its use during later stages of pregnancy should only occur if a doctor determines that the benefit clearly outweighs the potential risk, as both active ingredients require careful individual evaluation during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or suspect they may be pregnant should inform their doctor immediately so that a suitable treatment approach can be discussed. Use during breastfeeding is also generally not recommended without medical guidance, as Metronidazole is known to pass into breast milk, and a doctor may advise a temporary pause in breastfeeding during treatment. Any decision regarding use during pregnancy or lactation should be made only through careful consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

Storage Instructions

Entamizole tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture, ideally below 30°C. The tablets should remain in their original packaging until ready for use, and the product should always be kept out of the reach and sight of children. Tablets should not be used beyond their printed expiry date, and any unused or expired medicine should be disposed of responsibly according to local pharmaceutical waste guidelines rather than discarded in regular household trash.

FAQS

Why does Entamizole combine two different active ingredients?
Diloxanide Furoate and Metronidazole target different stages of the amoebic infection, and combining them is intended to provide more complete treatment coverage than using a single agent alone.

Can alcohol be consumed while taking Entamizole?
No, alcohol should be strictly avoided during treatment and for a period afterward, as it can react with the Metronidazole component and cause unpleasant symptoms such as flushing and nausea.

Is it necessary to complete the full course of Entamizole?
Yes, the full prescribed course should be completed even if symptoms improve early, as stopping treatment prematurely may allow the infection to persist or return.

Does Entamizole cause any harmless but noticeable changes?
Some individuals may notice their urine appear darker in color while taking this medicine, which is generally a harmless effect of the Metronidazole component, though any concerns should be discussed with a doctor.

Disclaimer

Always use this medicine strictly according to your doctor’s instructions and prescribed dosage.