iodoquinol Health Article

Generic name(s):

iodoquinol

Brand name(s):

Diquinol, Yodoxin

What is the most important information I should know about iodoquinol?

Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Iodoquinol may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Report any vision changes to your doctor.

What is iodoquinol?

Iodoquinol is an amebicidal drug. The exact way that iodoquinol works is not known.

Iodoquinol is used to treat intestinal infections caused by amoebae.

Iodoquinol may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking iodoquinol?

Do not take iodoquinol without first talking to your doctor if you have

• liver disease;

• optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve) or other vision problems;

• nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy, numbness or tingling); or

• thyroid disease.

You may not be able to take iodoquinol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether iodoquinol will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take iodoquinol without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known if iodoquinol will affect a nursing infant. Do not take iodoquinol without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take iodoquinol?

Take iodoquinol exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take iodoquinol after a meal.

It is important to take iodoquinol regularly to get the most benefit.

Store iodoquinol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an iodoquinol overdose have not been reported.

What should I avoid while taking iodoquinol?

Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Iodoquinol may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Report any vision changes to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of iodoquinol?

Seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following uncommon but serious side effects:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• vision problems;

• numbness or tingling; or

• skin rash.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take iodoquinol and talk to your doctor if you experience

• nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps;

• diarrhea;

• headache;

• dizziness;

• fever or chills;

• itching; or

• enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.