Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Benznidazole
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiparasitic, Antitrypanosomal
Pharmacological: Nitroimidazole
FDA Approved Indications
- Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis)
Mechanism of Action
Benznidazole produces its antiparasitic effect by generating free radicals within the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, leading to DNA damage and parasite death.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 5-7 mg/kg/day divided into two doses for 60 days
Pediatric: Same as adult dosing, tailored to body weight
Geriatric: Use with caution; adjust based on renal function and tolerability
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose accordingly, monitor renal function
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor liver function tests
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed orally
Distribution: Widely distributed in tissues and body fluids
Metabolism: Primarily hepatic, via CYP450 enzymes
Excretion: Metabolites excreted in urine
Half Life: Approximately 8-12 hours
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to nitroimidazoles
Precautions
- Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation; limited data available, consult current guidelines
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Nausea (Common)
- Vomiting (Common)
- Rash (Less common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Neurotoxicity (peripheral neuropathy, encephalopathy) (Rare)
- Hepatotoxicity (Rare)
- Bone marrow suppression (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CYP450 enzyme inducers or inhibitors may alter metabolism
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for hypersensitivity, neurological symptoms, liver function, blood counts
Diagnoses:
- Potential for neurotoxicity
- Risk of hepatotoxicity
Implementation: Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset; monitor laboratory parameters regularly
Evaluation: Assess for symptom improvement and adverse effects
Patient/Family Teaching
- Complete the full course of therapy
- Report any numbness, weakness, or unusual symptoms
- Avoid alcohol and hepatotoxic medications during treatment
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Potential for carcinogenicity and teratogenicity; use only when benefits outweigh risks
Genetic Factors: Limited data
Lab Test Interference: May affect some liver function tests
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Gastrointestinal distress, neurological symptoms, possible neurological toxicity
Treatment: Supportive care, symptomatic treatment, no specific antidote
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from moisture and light
Stability: Stable for the duration of the shelf life specified on the package