What is Tinidazole? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Tinidazole overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Tinidazole, Tindamax

Generic Names:

  • Tinidazole

Uses:

  • Treats infections caused by protozoa (including trichomoniasis, giardiasis, and amebiasis). Also treats vaginal infections caused by bacteria.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Amebicide, Extraintestinal, Amebicide, Intestinal, Antibiotic, Antiprotozoal

Forms:

  • Tablet, Liquid

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Tinidazole used for?

What form(s) does Tinidazole come in?

  • Tablet

  • Liquid

What are common Tinidazole dosages?

  • Tablet 250MG

  • Tablet 500MG

  • Jar 1GM of

  • Bottle 100GM of

Tinidazole images - What does Tinidazole look like?

  • Tinidazole
    250mg tablet

  • Tinidazole
    500mg tablet

How to take Tinidazole

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk. Taking this medicine with food will help you avoid having stomach discomfort or upset.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • If you cannot swallow the tablet, it may be crushed in artificial cherry syrup. Shake this mixture well before drinking. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • 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. You may store the oral liquid (crushed tablets in artificial cherry syrup) at room temperature up to 7 days.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk. Taking this medicine with food will help you avoid having stomach discomfort or upset.

  • 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.

  • If you cannot swallow the tablet, it may be crushed in artificial cherry syrup. Shake this mixture well before drinking. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. You may store the oral liquid (crushed tablets in artificial cherry syrup) at room temperature up to 7 days.

What to do if you miss a dose of Tinidazole

  • 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.

  • Oral routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Tinidazole contraindications - Who shouldn't take Tinidazole?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use if you had an allergic reaction to tinidazole or similar medicines.

Tinidazole 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.

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or a history of blood disease.

  • Do not breastfeed while using this medicine. Wait at least 3 days after you stop taking this medicine before you breastfeed.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Possible risk for cancer (with long-term use)Peripheral neuropathy (nerve problem) and seizuresIncreased risk for vaginal yeast infection

  • Trichomoniasis treatment: Your doctor may want to also treat your sexual partner, even if he or she has no symptoms. Also, you may want to use a condom during sexual intercourse. These measures will help keep you from getting the infection back again from your partner. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.

  • 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).

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

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

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

Tinidazole interactions & what to avoid when taking Tinidazole

  • Do not use this medicine if you have taken disulfiram within the last 2 weeks. Do not drink alcohol or use medicine that contains alcohol or propylene glycol while using this medicine and for at least 3 days after treatment.

  • Some foods and medicines can affect how tinidazole works. Tell your doctor if you are using cholestyramine, cimetidine, cyclosporine, fluorouracil, fosphenytoin, ketoconazole, lithium, oxytetracycline, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, tacrolimus, or a blood thinner (including warfarin).

  • You should not use this medicine if you are using disulfiram (Antabuse®), or if you have used it within the past 2 weeks.

  • Tinidazole may cause vaginal yeast infection. If this happens, you will need another type of medicine to treat the infection. Ask your doctor about this if you have any concerns.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Tinidazole side effects - How does Tinidazole make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

  • Vaginal swelling, itching, or discharge.

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

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

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

  • Seizures

  • Vaginal swelling, itching, or discharge

  • Unexplained sore throat or fever.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Constipation, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain

  • Metallic or bitter taste

  • Loss of appetite

  • Tiredness or weakness.

  • Tiredness or weakness

  • Dizziness, headache

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