Double-blind test of metronidazole and tinidazole in the treatment of asymptomatic Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba hartmanni carriers.

One hundred and fifteen persons with asymptomatic Entamoeba histolytica or E. hartmanni infection, or both, were given metronidazole (750 mg three times daily for 5 days), tinidazole (1 g twice daily on 2 consecutive days), or a starch placebo. Three post-treatment stools were examined in the 2 weeks following initiation of treatment. Cysts of E. histolytica reappeared in the stools of 37% of 30 given metronidazole, 62% of 34 given tinidazole, and 70% of 31 given placebo. Cysts of E. hartmanni reappeared in the stools of 46% of 24 given metronidazole, 69% of 16 given tinidazole, and 90% of 10 given placebo. Rapid absorption and short duration of treatment make both drugs ineffective for the treatment of ameba carriers.