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What Is Used to Treat Giardia?

Many people are unsure what is used to treat Giardia, but the most effective treatment simply involves medicine and drinking plenty of fluids. Another common step in Giardia treatment is to treat those who have been in close contact with the infected person.
 
The medicines that are used to treat Giardia have been effective in curing the infection in about 80 percent of people.
 
The other method used to treat Giardia -- maintaining hydration -- is especially important for young children and pregnant women because they are more likely to get dehydrated from diarrhea.
 
(Click Giardia Treatment for a more detailed description of what is used to treat Giardia, including what to do if symptoms don't improve with medication and signs to look for in determining when treatment is needed for young children.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD