Iodoquinol is used to treat amebiasis and intestinal parasites.
What is Iodoquinol?
Iodoquinol is an amebicide. It works by killing the parasites (amoebas) that infect the intestine and cause amebiasis.
How should Iodoquinol be taken?
Iodoquinol is typically administered orally in the form of tablets. The tablets can be chopped and combined with food and water. In any case, these tablets should be taken during meals.
Side effects associated with Iodoquinol
Among the possible side effects of iodoquinol include the following:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Irritation or itching of the rectum
- Stomach cramps
You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Numbness or tingling in arms or legs
- Vision problems
- Vomiting
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Iodoquinol
Prolonged use of iodoquinol can increase the risk of certain side effects such as vision problems, numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the limbs. It should not be taken for more than 20 days, unless medically specified. It is equally important not to stop treatment earlier than planned.
Before starting treatment with Iodoquinol, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs (especially 8-hydroxyquinoline or iodine-based medications) or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from liver disease, optic neuropathy, eye problems or thyroid disorders
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
It is also important to remember that iodoquinol can interfere with the test results for thyroid function.
