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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffChildren and adults who have giardia infection but no symptoms usually don't need treatment unless they're likely to spread the parasites. Many people who do have problems often get better on their own in a few weeks. When signs and symptoms are severe or the infection persists, doctors usually treat giardiasis with antibiotics such as metronidazole or tinidazole. The two drugs are equally effective, but tinidazole requires a shorter course of treatment. Both can cause side effects such as a metallic taste, nausea and vomiting, and you must avoid drinking alcohol while taking them. Pregnant women shouldn't use these drugs during the first trimester because they may lead to birth defects. Some doctors prefer not to treat women at all during pregnancy, or they may opt to use the less toxic — though less effective — drug paramomycin. Metronidazole may be considered in extreme cases where signs and symptoms are severe.
