Diarrhea
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Treatment of Giardia

Treatment of Giardia may consist of taking medications, staying hydrated, and treating people who have had close contact with the infected patient.
 
Several medicines have proven effective in the treatment of Giardia. If a person's symptoms do not improve with drug treatment, however, the doctor may recommend treatment with another Giardia medication or with the same medicine for a longer period of time.
 
An important aspect in the treatment of Giardia is keeping the patient well hydrated. Because certain people, especially children and pregnant women, are more susceptible to dehydration, drinking plenty of fluids is a vital part of treatment.
 
(Click Giardia Treatment for a more detailed look at the treatment of Giardia, including information on the treatment of chronic Giardia and an explanation of when treatment is necessary for children.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD