Drug Class: What is Metronidazole and why is it prescribed?
Generic Metronidazole belongs to a group of antibiotics called the azoles.
Generic Metronidazole is an antibiotic especially effective against anaerobic infections (infections that grow without the presence of oxygen.) In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties in the large intestine and is a very effective anti-diarrhea medication. It is an effective antibiotic against certain protozoal infections, especially Giardia.
A common use of Generic Metronidazole medication would be the treatment of colitis, which may or may not be caused by inflammatory bowel disease.
Generic Metronidazole is an antibiotic specifically used to stop the spread of infections, which do not require oxygen to grow. It is used in this preparation to treat an inflammatory condition of the vagina, known as bacterial vaginosis.
|| Top || Drug Mechanism: How does Metronidazole work?
Generic Metronidazole works by entering the bacterial cell and binding to its genetic material (DNA). This prevents the formation of further DNA, which the bacteria require for survival, and therefore the bacteria are unable to reproduce.
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Dosage: How should you take Metronidazole?
MIssed Dose of Metronidazole
Take the missed dose of Metronidazole as soon as you remember. Take the rest of the day's doses at evenly spaced intervals unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Excess Dose of Metronidazole
Generic Metronidazole in excess dose may show symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of coordination, numbness and tingling, and seizures.
Conditions for Storage of Metronidazole
Store Metronidazole away from moisture and heat.
Potencies of Metronidazole
Metronidazole Tablets : Metronidazole 200 mg & Metronidazole 400 mg
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Possible food and drug interactions when taking Metronidazole
- Alcohol should not be used with this product as it may cause flushing, abdominal cramps, vomiting and an increased heart rate.
- Metronidazole enhances the effect of blood thinning medicines such as warfarin and nicoumalone.
- An increase in the harmful effects of lithium may be seen when taken with metronidazole.
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Contraindications with Metronidazole
Metronidazole is contraindicated in the following:
- Children
- Menstruation
- Allergy to one or any of its ingredients
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Special information on Metronidazole
Metronidazole should be used with caution in:
- Blood disorders
- Diseases of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
- Kidney failure
- Low white blood cell count (leucopenia)
- Severely decreased liver function
- Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
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Metronidazole side effects
The adverse effects associated with Metronidazole are:
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Disturbances of the gut such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
- Vaginal discharge
- Bitter or metallic taste
- Increases pelvic pressure
- Stinging or burning at the area of application
- Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
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