Entamizole Syrup Uses

Entamizole Syrup is a combination drug, that is primarily used for the treatment of certain gastrointestinal infections. It is an antiparasitic medication used to treat infections caused by a variety of parasites, including:

1. Intestinal protozoa: Entamizole is effective against a number of intestinal protozoa, such as Giardiasis (caused by Giardia lamblia), Amoebiasis (caused by Entamoeba histolytica), and Trichomonas vaginalis.
2. Pinworms: Entamizole is also effective against pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis).
3. Hookworms: Entamizole can be used to treat hookworm infections (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus).

Off-label Uses of Entamizole Syrup

1. Bacterial Infections: While Entamizole is primarily used to treat parasitic infections, it also has antimicrobial properties that can be effective against certain bacterial infections. In some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe metronidazole off-label to treat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by anaerobic bacteria.
2. Dental Infections: Entamizole contains Metronidazole, which has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, which is why this syrup may be used off-label to treat certain dental infections, such as periodontitis or dental abscesses, particularly when caused by anaerobic bacteria.
3. Crohn’s Disease: Entamizole syrup can be used as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. However, the evidence for its effectiveness in this condition is limited, and other medications are typically preferred for Crohn’s disease treatment.

Entamizole Syrup generically known as a combination of Diloxanide and Metronidazole, is manufactured and marketed by Abbott Laboratories.

The following are some alternative brands of Entamizole and their manufacturers.

• Flagyl Plus : Sanofi Aventis (Pakistan) Ltd.
• Zolen : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Metodine DF : Searle Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Entametox : Epla Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Zolodine : Ideal Pharmaceutical Industries, Pakistan.
• G Zole ; Olive Laboratories, Pakistan.
• Diloxamet : Mediceena Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Loxon : Bloom Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Amebazole : Geofman Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Metrolox : Medicraft Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Entamizole is available in Tablet and Syrup forms.

Entamizole Syrup : Diloxanide 125mg/5ml and Metronidazole 100mg/5ml strengths

Entamizole Tablet : Diloxanide 250mg and Metronidazole 200mg strengths

Entamizole DS Tablet : Diloxanide 500mg and Metronidazole 400mg strengths

Entamizole syrup, like any medication, may have contraindications and should be used with caution in certain individuals.

Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Diloxanide, Metronidazole, or any other ingredients in the syrup should not use Entamizole. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The use of Entamizole syrup should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. It is also generally not recommended during breastfeeding. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential risks and benefits in these situations.

Blood Disorders: Entamizole Syrup may affect blood cells and their production. It is generally contraindicated in individuals with blood disorders such as leukopenia (low white blood cell count) and blood dyscrasias. Close monitoring of blood cell counts may be necessary for individuals with a history of blood disorders.

Neurological Disorders: Metronidazole, one of the components of Entamizole syrup, may rarely cause neurological side effects, such as peripheral neuropathy or seizures. Therefore, caution is advised in individuals with a history of neurological disorders or seizures.

Liver Dysfunction: Entamizole syrup should be used with caution in individuals with liver dysfunction or liver disease. Metronidazole is primarily metabolized in the liver, and dosage adjustment may be necessary for individuals with impaired liver function.

Entamizole Syrup Dose for Adults:

• 10-20 ml syrup three times a day for 5 days.

Entamizole Syrup Dose for Children:

• 5 to 10 ml syrup three times a day for 5 days

In severe or refractory cases, the therapy can be continued for 10 days in adults and children over the age of 12 years.

Entazimole syrup contains two active ingredients and here we see how its ingredients work.

1. Diloxanide: It acts specifically against the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, which causes amoebiasis. Its mode of action involves inhibiting the growth and multiplication of the parasite in the intestines. Diloxanide is considered an amoebicidal agent, meaning it directly kills the amoebae. It works by interfering with the energy metabolism and cellular processes of the parasite, leading to its elimination from the intestines.
2. Metronidazole: It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent. It is effective against a variety of anaerobic bacteria and parasites, including Entamoeba histolytica. Metronidazole exerts its action by disrupting the DNA and protein synthesis of the microorganisms, leading to their death. Specifically, it forms toxic metabolites within the microbial cells, causing DNA damage and inhibiting the formation of new DNA strands. This ultimately results in the death of the parasite and the clearance of the infection.

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