Key Points
- If you think you have Chagas disease, see your healthcare provider.
- There are effective treatment options for all ages.
Treatment overview
Only a healthcare provider can diagnose Chagas disease. Treatment works best when started early.
Who should get treatment:
- People who find out they have the disease early.
- Babies born with the infection.
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Many people who have had the disease for a long time.
They may also refer you to a heart, stomach, or infectious disease specialist if necessary.
Treatment options
In the United States, there are two main types of treatments:
- Antiparasitic treatment: This kills the parasite that causes Chagas disease.
- Symptomatic treatment: This helps manage the symptoms and signs of infection.
Antiparasitic treatment works best when started early but can be used at any stage of the disease. In the United States, there are two treatments available:
- Benznidazole is FDA approved for use in children 2–12 years of age and is commercially available at http://www.benznidazoletablets.com.
- Lampit® (nifurtimox) is FDA approved for treatment of children from birth to age younger than 18 years and is commercially available for pharmacies to purchase from several drug wholesalers.
Your healthcare provider can talk with experts at CDC to decide the best treatment for you. Most people getting treated for Chagas do not need to stay in the hospital.
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