Pronunciation: benz NID a zole

What is the most important information I should know about benznidazole?


What is benznidazole?

Benznidazole is an antibiotic that is used to treat Chagas disease in children ages 2 through 12 years. Chagas disease (also called American trypanosomiasis) is an infection caused by a parasite common to the areas of South America, Central America and Mexico.


Benznidazole may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking benznidazole?

You should not use benznidazole if you are allergic to it, or if:

  • you are allergic to similar antibiotics such as metronidazole, secnidazole, or tinidazole; or
  • you have taken disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past 2 weeks.



This medicine may affect fertility (ability to have children) in men. It is not known whether this effect would be permanent.

You should not breastfeed while using benznidazole.

Benznidazole should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I take benznidazole?


You may take benznidazole with or without food.

You may need to break a tablet to get the correct dose. For a young child who cannot swallow a tablet whole, you may dissolve the tablet in water to create a liquid for the child to drink.





What happens if I miss a dose?


What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while taking benznidazole?


What are the possible side effects of benznidazole?



Stop using benznidazole and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands or feet (may continue for several months); or

Common side effects may include:

  • low white blood cell counts;
  • rash or itching;
  • stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
  • headache; or
  • weight loss.


What other drugs will affect benznidazole?


Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about benznidazole.

