Izato tablet is an antiparasitic and antiviral medication that is primarily used for the treatment of certain parasitic infections, such as:

  1. Helminths: Izato tablet is used to treat helminth infections, such as hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms.
  2. Giardiasis: Izato tablet is also used for the treatment of giardiasis, an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia. It helps eradicate the parasite and alleviate symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating.
  3. Amebiasis: Izato tablet can be used to treat amebiasis, an infection caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. This condition often leads to diarrhea, stomach pain, and, in severe cases, liver abscesses.
  4. Cryptosporidiosis: Izato is used for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis, a parasitic infection caused by Cryptosporidium. It is commonly seen in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Izato can help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium infection.
  5. Viral Gastroenteritis: Izato tablet is used for certain viruses that cause gastroenteritis, such as rotavirus and norovirus. It can help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea associated with these viral infections.

Off-label Uses of Izato Tablet

  1. Viral Infections: Izato tablet can be used for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza viruses, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), and others. Its use for viral illnesses is currently considered as off-label and based on clinical experience.
  2. Respiratory Tract Infections: The Izato tablet is also used for respiratory tract infections, including acute bronchitis and community-acquired pneumonia. It provides positive effects in terms of symptom improvement and reduction in the duration of illness.
Izato Uses and Indications

What is Izato?

Izato is one of the leading brands of Nitazoxanide, manufactured and marketed by Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Izato Alternatives : Other Similar Brands

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

  • Diatazox : Continental Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • NT-Tox : Genix Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Nitazide : Helix Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Atizox : Macter International (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Nitazert : Hilton Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Nitazole : Neo Medix, Pakistan.

Izato : Available Formulations and Strengths

Presently, Izato is available in Tablet and Syrup Forms.

Izato Tablet : 500mg strength.

Izato Syrup : 100mg/5ml strength.

Who Should Not Use Izato?

Izato has a few contraindications, which means there are circumstances or medical conditions in which its use is not recommended.

Hypersensitivity: Izato is contraindicated in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Izato or any of its components. If an allergic reaction occurs after taking Izato, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Severe hepatic impairment: Izato should be used with caution or avoided in individuals with severe hepatic impairment (liver disease). This is because Izato is metabolized in the liver, and severe liver dysfunction may affect its clearance from the body. Dosing adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary in such cases.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The use of Izato during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended. Although there may be limited data available on the use of Izato in pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication during these periods.

Children under 1 year of age: Izato is not recommended for use in children under the age of 1 year. Safety and efficacy data in this age group are limited.

Concomitant use of certain medications: Izato may interact with certain medications, such as antacids containing aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, which may reduce the absorption of Izato. It’s important to inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.

What is the Recommended Daily Dosage of Izato?

Izato Dose for Cryptosporidiosis:

  • Adults and children 12 years of age and older: One Tablet of 500mg, twice daily for 3 days.

Izato Dose for Giardiasis:

  • Adults and children 12 years of age and older: One Tablet of 500mg, once daily for 3 days.

Izato Dose for Pediatric dosing for selected indications:

  • Children 4 to 11 years of age: 10ml Izato Syrup, twice daily for 3 days.
  • Children 1 to 3 years of age: 5ml Izato Syrup, twice daily for 3 days.

How Izato Works?

Izato is an antiparasitic and antiviral medication with a broad-spectrum mode of action. Its precise mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to exert its effects through multiple pathways. Here are the main aspects of Izato’s mode of action:

Antiparasitic activity: Izato disrupts the metabolic pathways and enzyme systems of these parasites, leading to their inhibition and subsequent death. Izato interferes with the electron transport chain in the mitochondria of parasites, disrupting their energy production and causing mitochondrial dysfunction.

Antiviral activity: Izato has shown activity against a wide range of viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza viruses, coronaviruses, rotaviruses, noroviruses, and others. Its antiviral mechanism is not fully elucidated but may involve inhibition of viral replication by targeting viral proteins, interfering with viral attachment, or affecting host cell functions required for viral replication. Izato has been shown to inhibit viral replication and reduce viral load in in-vitro studies and some clinical trials.