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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Nifurtimox Oral Tablet (NIFURTIMOX - ORAL)

For parasitic infections.

Brand Name(s): Lampit

Generic Name: Nifurtimox

Instructions

The tablet may be split into 2 equal parts. Break only at the score line, using your hand as directed. Do not use a pill cutter or split the tablet any other way.

If you have trouble swallowing this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for specific directions for mixing it with water.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Take the medicine with food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Space doses evenly to keep a steady amount of medicine in the body.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Keep the desiccant (drying) packet in the bottle and keep the bottle closed tightly.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If there are fewer than 3 hours to the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Do not drink beverages with alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • fever
  • mood changes
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • weight loss

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.