Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone
About Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone belongs to the class of medicines called ‘antidiarrheal’ used to treat severe diarrhea that occurs due to infections. Diarrhea is a condition in which bowel movements are too frequent, leading to loose and watery stools. In general, infection of the digestive tract is the common cause of diarrhea. Bacteria, parasites, or worms can cause infection.
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone contains Diphenoxylate, Atropine, and Furazolidone. Diphenoxylate works by slowing down intestinal movements, thereby it makes the stools more solid and less frequent. Atropine helps to prevent involuntary muscle movements in the intestine. Atropine is added to prevent the abuse of diphenoxylate as higher doses may cause physical dependence. Furazolidone works by interfering with protein synthesis, a mechanism that is important for the survival of bacteria.
You should take this medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The common side-effects of Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone are abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, and dizziness. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side effects persist or get worse, inform your doctor immediately.
It is not recommended to take Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone if you are allergic to any contents of it. Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone should not be used in patients with obstructive jaundice (blockage of bile flow out of the liver). Before taking Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, myasthenia gravis (severe muscle weakness), glaucoma (an eye disease), enlarged prostate, gallbladder problems, difficulty passing urine, blockage, or severe inflammation in the intestine or stomach, thyroid problems, and Down’s syndrome (a genetic disorder that causes growth delay in children). Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone is not recommended for use in children below 13 years of age as the safety and efficacy have not been studied. Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone is not recommended for use in pregnant and breastfeeding women unless clinically needed. Do not consume alcohol as it may worsen the condition. Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone may cause dizziness, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy.
Uses of Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone
Medicinal Benefits
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone is used to treat diarrhea caused by infection of the digestive tract. It can effectively control bowel movements, treat infection, and prevent the recurrence of symptoms. It is usually prescribed along with fluid and electrolyte therapy. It is also advised to take plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Difficulty in micturation
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Diarrhoea: It is characterized by loose and watery stools with a frequent need to have a bowel movement. Diarrhoea might be a result of bacterial or parasitic (worm) infection. It can be acute (lasts for a few days) or chronic (lasts for a few weeks). Diarrhoea can lead to loss of water along with salts, electrolytes, and minerals from the body. The common causes of diarrhoea include food intolerance, food allergy, adverse reaction to a medication, or infections. Symptoms include nausea, abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, dehydration, watery loose stools, and frequent urge to evacuate the bowels.
FAQs
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone contains Diphenoxylate, Atropine, and Furazolidone. Diphenoxylate works by slowing down the intestinal movements, thereby makes the stools more solid and less frequent. Atropine helps to prevent involuntary muscle movements in the intestine. Atropine is added to prevent the abuse of diphenoxylate as higher doses may cause physical dependence. Furazolidone works by interfering with protein synthesis, a mechanism that is important for the survival of bacteria.
You may notice an improvement in symptoms within 2 days after taking medicine. However, you should complete the course of therapy as prescribed by the doctor. If you do not notice any improvement in the condition within 10 days after taking Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone, talk to your doctor immediately.
The common side-effects of Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone are abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, and dizziness. These side-effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side-effects persist or get worse, inform your doctor immediately.
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone may cause dry mouth. So, it is advised to drink plenty of water and take regular sips during the day. It is also necessary to avoid spicy and salty foods as much as possible.
Avoid taking tyramine-rich foods such as cheese, yeast, smoked meat, poultry, and fish as these foods may interact with Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone and cause unwanted effects. In addition, avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol as these drinks may increase the risk of side-effects.
Atropine+diphenoxylate+furazolidone should be used with caution in elderly people as there is an increased risk of side-effects in this population.