furazolidone /fo͝o′rəzol″idōn/ , an antibiotic with antibacterial and antiprotozoal activity. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for the treatment of diarrhea caused by susceptible bacterial or protozoal infections (e.g., Giardiasis, Vibrio) of the GI tract. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. It is not given to children less than 1 month of age, and it is not used with drugs that are contraindicated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Foods high in tyramine and concurrent use of alcohol should be avoided. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are hemolytic anemia and fever, skin rash, and abdominal pain.
