What is the common treatment for Giardia lamblia infection?

Giardia lamblia infection, also known as giardiasis, is a parasitic infection that affects the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. The most common treatment for this condition is metronidazole, which is an antibiotic that is specifically effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites, including Giardia.

Metronidazole works by disrupting the DNA synthesis of the parasite, leading to its death. It is generally well-tolerated and is taken orally. The appropriate dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health, but metronidazole remains the first-line treatment in both adults and children.

The other treatments mentioned are not appropriate for Giardiasis. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by certain viruses, azithromycin is primarily used for bacterial infections, and vancomycin is an antibiotic effective primarily against Gram-positive bacteria and is not effective against parasitic infections. Thus, metronidazole is the standard of care for treating Giardia lamblia infections.