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Nitazoxanide

Prescription
Antiprotozoal / Anthelmintic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Interferes with pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, disrupting anaerobic energy metabolism of protozoa and anaerobic bacteria.

At a glance

Class
Antiprotozoal / Anthelmintic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; suspension stable for 7 days at room temperature

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and some helminth infections
Dose
25–75 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Limited feline data; extrapolated from canine use
Dose
25 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; suspension stable for 7 days at room temperature

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical responseGI toleranceFecal exam for parasite clearance
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Alinia
Nitaclean

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Nitazoxanide?
Nitazoxanide is a antiprotozoal / anthelmintic used in pets. Interferes with pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) enzyme-dependent electron transfer reaction, disrupting anaerobic energy metabolism of protozoa and anaerobic bacteria.
What is Nitazoxanide used for in pets?
Nitazoxanide is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and some helminth infections; Limited feline data; extrapolated from canine use.
What is the Nitazoxanide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Nitazoxanide is typically dosed as follows — Used for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and some helminth infections: 25–75 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Nitazoxanide dose for cats?
For cats, Nitazoxanide is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data; extrapolated from canine use: 25 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Nitazoxanide need a prescription?
Yes. Nitazoxanide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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