tinidazole

Tinidazole is a nitroimidazole antimicrobial used to treat protozoal infections and certain anaerobic bacterial infections. It is structurally related to metronidazole and is activated in susceptible organisms by reduction of its nitro group, generating reactive intermediates that damage DNA.

The drug has activity against Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Trichomonas vaginalis, and is used for various anaerobic infections, including intra‑abdominal and gynecologic infections and some mixed infections.

Tinidazole is administered orally as tablets. Dosing varies by infection; for trichomoniasis a common regimen is a single 2 g dose, while for amebiasis or giardiasis higher or multi‑day courses are used, with adjustments for patient factors. It is generally well absorbed and has a relatively long elimination half‑life, with hepatic metabolism and elimination in urine and feces.

Common adverse effects include nausea, a metallic taste, headache, and abdominal discomfort. A disulfiram‑like reaction can occur with alcohol during treatment and for a period after completion. Contraindications include hypersensitivity; many guidelines advise caution in early pregnancy, and caution is also warranted during lactation and in significant hepatic impairment. Drug interactions are possible with other medications.

Tinidazole is available worldwide and marketed under various brand names in addition to generic formulations. It is included in many national essential medicines lists and is used as an option when metronidazole is unsuitable or when a longer‑half‑life nitroimidazole is preferred.