Alinia

Alinia is the brand name for nitazoxanide, an oral antiparasitic and antiviral medication developed by Romark Laboratories. It is used in several countries to treat diarrheal illnesses caused by protozoa and is available in various formulations, including an oral suspension and tablets.

Nitazoxanide is a thiazolide prodrug. After ingestion, it is rapidly converted to tizoxanide, its active metabolite. The drug is believed to interfere with energy metabolism in anaerobic organisms by inhibiting the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer, which can disrupt growth and survival of certain parasites and, in some contexts, affect certain viruses observed in laboratory or clinical studies.

In many regions, Alinia is indicated for the treatment of diarrhea caused by Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum in adults and children aged 12 months and older. Regulatory approvals and dosing regimens vary by country. Beyond these approved uses, nitazoxanide has been studied for a broader range of parasitic infections and has been explored for antiviral activity against viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus, and influenza; some of these applications remain investigational or off-label depending on local guidelines.

Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, along with headaches. Discoloration of urine or stool can occur. The drug is administered orally and should be used under medical supervision, with consideration given to regional labeling and patient-specific factors. Nitazoxanide was approved by the U.S. FDA in 2002 for Giardia and Cryptosporidium-associated diarrhea in pediatric patients.