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Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a single-celled parasite, and it is one of the more common infections of this kind. It clears with a short course of antiparasitic tablets. Many people carry the parasite without noticing anything, which helps explain how it passes between partners.

Medicines used to treat Trichomoniasis

Metronidazole

Metronidazole

200 · 400mg

Metronidazole tablets contain metronidazole, with the price shown per tablet, in several strengths and pack sizes. They are used for bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, giardiasis and protozoal infection.

FromUS$0.31/ tabletView

Tinidazole

Tinidazole

500mg

Tinidazole is a tablet for giardiasis, trichomoniasis and anaerobic bacterial infections. It comes in a single strength; pack sizes vary. Each option lists its price per tablet.

FromUS$0.55/ tabletView

Key points

  • Both partners need treatment at the same time, even when only one of them has symptoms.
  • Tinidazole is often given as a single large dose, which makes the full course easier to finish.
  • Do not drink alcohol while taking either medicine, or for at least 72 hours after the last dose; the combination can cause severe nausea.

Symptoms

A frothy, yellow-green discharge with an unpleasant smell is common in women, together with itching, soreness, or discomfort when passing urine or during sex. In men, signs are usually absent; where they do appear, there may be irritation inside the penis or a mild discharge.

How it is treated

Oral antiparasitic medicines from the antiparasitics group clear the infection. Metronidazole tablets are supplied in 200 mg and 400 mg strengths, and tinidazole tablets in 500 mg. Both are nitroimidazoles; they act by disrupting the parasite’s DNA. Avoid penetrative sex until both partners have finished treatment and symptoms have settled. Orders are shipped to Malaysia from pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you notice an unusual discharge, itching or discomfort when passing urine, or if a partner is told they have trichomoniasis. Symptoms that continue after treatment should be checked.

Further reading

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