Diracip-M DS is a dual-action prescription antibiotic and anti-parasitic medication primarily used to treat severe infectious diarrhea, dysentery, and amoebiasis (amoebic dysentery).
It contains a combination of two active ingredients that target different types of microscopic infections in the digestive tract:
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Metronidazole (400mg): An antibiotic that eliminates anaerobic bacteria and protozoa by damaging their DNA.
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Diloxanide Furoate (500mg): A luminal amoebicide that works directly inside the large intestine to destroy infection-causing amoebic parasites.
Medical Uses
Doctors commonly prescribe Diracip-M to treat intestinal complications caused by contaminated food or water, including:
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Amoebiasis: Parasitic gut infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica.
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Giardiasis: Intestinal infection causing watery diarrhea and cramping.
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Severe Dysentery: Diarrhea containing blood and mucus accompanied by a fever.
Proper Administration & Dosage
Because it is a prescription-only medication in Kenya regulated by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, it should only be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare professional.
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Standard Adult Dose: Typically 1 tablet taken twice daily, though your doctor may adjust this based on the severity of your condition.
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With Food: Always take this medication with or immediately after a meal to protect your stomach lining and reduce nausea.
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Swallow Whole: Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Drink it with a full glass of water.
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Complete the Course: Even if your diarrhea stops and you feel better, you must finish the entire prescribed pack to ensure the infection does not return or become resistant.
Critical Warnings & Interactions
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Strict Alcohol Ban: You must avoid alcohol entirely while taking Diracip-M and for at least 48 hours after your last dose. Mixing metronidazole with alcohol triggers a severe "disulfiram-like reaction," causing violent vomiting, hot flashes, rapid heartbeats, and severe headaches.
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: This medication may not be safe for developing babies. Consult your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or nursing.
Potential Side Effects
While highly effective, you may experience mild to moderate temporary side effects:
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A distinct metallic taste in the mouth.
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Nausea, occasional vomiting, or mild stomach cramps.
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Darkened urine (this is a harmless byproduct of metronidazole processing).
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Mild dizziness or headaches.
If you are experiencing severe dehydration, extreme abdominal pain, or a high fever, please seek immediate emergency care.
