Diracip-M Syrup (Suspension) is a liquid prescription antibiotic and anti-parasitic medication primarily formulated for children to treat amoebiasis, giardiasis, and severe bacterial diarrhea or dysentery.
Active Ingredients Profile
Every 5ml of the liquid suspension contains a calibrated pediatric dose of two active compounds:
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Diloxanide Furoate (125mg): A specialized luminal amoebicide that actively clears out amoebic parasites and lingering cysts residing inside the bowel lumen.
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Metronidazole (100mg): A potent agent that targets and kills anaerobic bacteria and microscopic protozoa by disrupting their cellular DNA.
When is it Prescribed?
Doctors prescribe this suspension when a patient (usually a child) contracts an intestinal infection from contaminated water or food, resulting in:
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Amoebic Dysentery: Severe diarrhea marked by the presence of blood, mucus, and persistent stomach cramps.
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Giardiasis: Watery, foul-smelling diarrhea accompanied by strong abdominal bloating.
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Other Protozoal Infections: Conditions like Blastocystis hominis or balantidiasis.
Administration Rules & Dosage
Because this is a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM) regulated by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Kenya, a doctor must determine the exact dosage based on the patient's age and weight.
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Shake Well: Always shake the bottle vigorously before every use to ensure the active medicine is evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
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Use a Measuring Syringe: Do not use standard household spoons. Use the dosing cup or oral syringe provided with the medication to ensure accuracy.
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Give with Food: Administer the syrup during or immediately after a meal. This minimizes potential stomach upset or nausea.
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Finish the Bottle: Complete the exact number of days prescribed by your clinician, even if the diarrhea stops early. Halting treatment prematurely allows surviving parasites to multiply and develop drug resistance.
Side Effects & Precautions
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Common Reactions: The patient might experience a temporary metallic taste, mild nausea, loss of appetite, or a harmless darkening of their urine.
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Signs of Dehydration: If the child cannot retain fluids, displays extreme lethargy, or has sunken eyes, seek emergency medical care immediately alongside giving the medication.
