What is Benznidazole: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Benznidazole overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Benznidazole

Generic Names:

  • Benznidazole

Uses:

  • Treats Chagas disease.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiprotozoal

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Benznidazole used for?

What form(s) does Benznidazole come in

  • Tablet

What are common Benznidazole doses?

  • Tablet 12.5MG

  • Tablet 100MG

How to take Benznidazole

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it in its original bottle.

  • This tablet is scored. You may take it whole or broken at the scored lines. You may cut it in half or into fourths as directed by your doctor. This medicine may be given as a slurry.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it in its original bottle.

  • This tablet is scored. You may take it whole or broken at the scored lines. You may cut it in half or into fourths as directed by your doctor. This medicine may be given as a slurry.

What to do if you miss a dose of Benznidazole

Benznidazole contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to benznidazole, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Benznidazole warnings

  • It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for 5 days after your last dose.

  • Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children. Some men who use this medicine have become infertile (unable to have children).

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Possible risk for cancerSerious skin reactionsPeripheral neuropathy (nerve problem)

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease or liver disease.

  • This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.

Benznidazole interactions

  • Do not use this medicine if you have taken disulfiram within the last two weeks. Also, do not take alcohol or alcoholic products during treatment with this medicine and for at least 3 days after your last dose.

Benznidazole side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash

  • Headache

  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

  • Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet

  • Bloody or black, tarry stools

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Nausea, vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Stomach pain

  • Decreased weight