Precautions
What to do about:
- feeling sick (nausea) – stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. ...
- being sick (vomiting) or diarrhoea –drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash to avoid dehydration. ...
- metallic taste in your mouth or a furry tongue – drink plenty of water and eat plain foods that you usually enjoy. ...
What conditions does metronidazole treat?
It's a potent drug in the nitroimidazole class used to treat bacterial infections of the: respiratory tract. Metronidazole is bactericidal (kills bacteria) and is used to treat ominous sounding organisms such as Bacteriodes fragilis, Helicobacter pylori, and Giardia lamblia.
What bacteria does metronidazole kill?
- a blood thinner called warfarin
- lithium (used to treat some types of mental health problem)
- disulfiram (used to help people stay off alcohol)
- phenytoin or phenobarbitone (used to treat epilepsy)
- ciclosporin (used to dampen the immune system)
- fluorouracil or busulfan (used to treat some types of cancer)
What skin infections does metronidazole treat?
Metronidazole topical cream, lotion, and gel treat inflammation caused by rosacea. This condition causes the skin of your face to redden and form small bumps. The more common side effects that can occur with metronidazole topical cream, gel, and lotion are generally mild. They may go away within a few days.
What is metronidazole and side effects?
What is metronidazole commonly used to treat?
Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial infections in different areas of the body. The extended-release tablets are used to treat women with vaginal infections (bacterial vaginosis).
Is metronidazole used to treat STD?
This medicine is also prescribed to treat sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The extended-release form of metronidazole is used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by too much harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Metronidazole is in a class of drugs called nitroimidazole antimicrobials.
What is the strongest antibiotic for STD?
Single-dose therapy with azithromycin is as effective as a seven-day course of doxycycline (Vibramycin). Doxycycline is less expensive, but azithromycin may be cost-beneficial because it provides single-dose, directly observed therapy. Erythromycin and ofloxacin (Floxin) also may be used to treat C.
Can metronidazole treat UTI?
Ampicillin is effective, safe and well-tolerated therapy for UTI by G. vaginalis. In contrast oral metronidazole is effective but no safe and bad-tolerated therapy for the same condition.
What happens if you drink alcohol with metronidazole?
Drinking alcohol while taking metronidazole is not recommended because the combination of metronidazole and alcohol can cause a reaction (often ref...
How long does it take for metronidazole to work?
Metronidazole starts to work 1 to 2 hours after you take it, because it is quickly absorbed, and it reaches its maximum concentration after 20 minu...
Can you have sex while taking metronidazole?
If you are taking oral metronidazole or using metronidazole gel for an infection that is linked with sexual activity, such as trichomoniasis, pelvi...
Does metronidazole treat chlamydia?
Metronidazole does not treat chlamydia and is not a recommended treatment for chlamydia, but it may be given if symptoms of chlamydia persist after...
Can metronidazole cause a yeast infection?
About 10% of women report a vaginal yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) as a side effect of metronidazole treatment. This is because metronidazol...
What Is metronidazole Topical?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.Metronidazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosace...
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use metronidazole topical if you are allergic to it.To make sure metronidazole topical is safe for you, tell your doctor about all y...
How Should I Use metronidazole Topical?
Use this medicine exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your...
What Happens If I Miss A Dose?
Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly...
What Happens If I Overdose?
An overdose of metronidazole applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.
What Should I Avoid While Using metronidazole Topical?
Do not take by mouth. Metronidazole topical is for use only on the skin. If this medication gets in your eyes, rinse with water.Do not use topical...
metronidazole Topical Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.C...
metronidazole Topical Dosing Information
Usual Adult Dose for Acne Rosacea:1% Topical Cream or Gel: Apply and rub in a thin film to the affected area(s) once a day0.75% Topical Cream, Gel,...
What Other Drugs Will Affect metronidazole Topical?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied metronidazole. But many drugs can interact wit...
How to report metronidazole side effects in Canada?
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Before taking metronidazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other antibiotics (such as tinidazole ); or if you have any other allergies.
Can antibiotics affect birth control?
Although most antibiotics are unlikely to affect hormonal birth control such as pills, patch, or ring, a few antibiotics (such as rifampin, rifabutin) can decrease their effectiveness. This could result in pregnancy. If you use hormonal birth control, ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Can you stop lopinavir without a doctor's approval?
Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: alcohol-containing products (such as cough and cold syrups, aftershave), products containing propylene glycol, lopinavir/ ritonavir solution, lithium.
What is metronidazole used for?
Interactions. 1. How it works. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic means "living without air".
What are the side effects of metronidazole?
Downsides. If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: A headache, nausea, diarrhea, an unpleasant metallic taste, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage to fingers and toes), ...
How long after taking metronidazole can you drink alcohol?
Avoid alcohol or products containing propylene glycol (found in some flavored iced teas, frostings, and salad dressings) while taking metronidazole, and for three days after the course of metronidazole has finished.
How long does metronidazole last?
For some infections, metronidazole may be given as a single dose. For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten days, or even longer. Do not use metronidazole to treat infections other than the one you have been prescribed it for.
How does metronidazole affect DNA?
Once absorbed, metronidazole diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cell death. However, the exact way metronidazole works is unknown. Metronidazole belongs to a class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles. 2.
Can you take alcohol while taking metronidazole?
Avoid alcohol and products containing propylene glycol while taking metronidazole. The dosage of metronidazole may need to be reduced in severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) and end-stage kidney disease. No dosage adjustment is needed for mild-to-moderate kidney or liver disease.
Can metronidazole cause seizures?
Rarely, seizures. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects of metronidazole. Metronidazole interacts with alcohol and propylene glycol (a food additive). Symptoms include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing. Avoid alcohol and products containing propylene glycol while taking metronidazole.
Why is Metronidazole prescribed?
Why is this medication prescribed? Expand Section. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, heart, bone, joint, lung, blood, nervous system, and other areas of the body. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
What to do if you have a symtom after taking metronidazole?
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.
What to do if you are allergic to metronidazole?
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to metronidazole, secnidazole (Solosec), tinidazole (Tindamax), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in metronidazole preparations. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
What is the extended release of nitroimidazole?
Metronidazole extended-release (long-acting) tablets are used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by too much of certain types of harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Metronidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
How long does metronidazole last?
Metronidazole capsules and tablets are usually taken as a one-time dose (or divided into two doses on 1 day) or two to four times daily for up to 10 days or longer.
What are the side effects of metronidazole?
Metronidazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: 1 vomiting 2 nausea 3 diarrhea 4 constipation 5 upset stomach 6 stomach cramps 7 loss of appetite 8 headache 9 dry mouth 10 sharp, unpleasant metallic taste 11 furry tongue; mouth or tongue irritation
How does antibiotics work?
It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
What is a topical metronidazole?
Metronidazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosacea. Metronidazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What happens if you take metronidazole?
Call your doctor at once if you have: numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands or feet; or. stinging or burning when you apply metronidazole topical. Common side effects may include: burning or stinging; skin redness or irritation; dry, scaly, or itchy skin; or. cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.
Can you breastfeed while taking metronidazole?
It is not known whether metronidazole topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not breastfeed while using metronidazole topical. Metronidazole topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
Can you use medicine on your skin?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Can you take metronidazole by mouth?
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Wash and gently dry your skin before applying metronidazole topical. Apply the medication in a thin layer and rub in completely. You may apply cosmetics after using metronidazole topical.
Why is metronidazole used?
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Metronidazole and other antibacterial drugs, Metronidazole should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.
How does metronidazole affect bacteria?
Metronidazole, a nitroimidazole, exerts antibacterial effects in an anaerobic environment against most obligate anaerobes. Once Metronidazole enters the organism by passive diffusion and activated in the cytoplasm of susceptible anaerobic bacteria, it is reduced; this process includes intracellular electron transport proteins such as ferredoxin, transfer of an electron to the nitro group of the Metronidazole, and formation of a short-lived nitroso free radical. Because of this alteration of the Metronidazole molecule, a concentration gradient is created and maintained which promotes the drug’s intracellular transport. The reduced form of Metronidazole and free radicals can interact with DNA leading to inhibition of DNA synthesis and DNA degradation leading to death of the bacteria. The precise mechanism of action of Metronidazole is unclear.
How many grams of metronidazole for trichomoniasis?
Metronidazole Dosage and Administration. Trichomoniasis: In the Female: One-day treatment − two grams of Metronidazole tablets , given either as a single dose or in two divided doses of one gram each, given in the same day. Seven-day course of treatment - 250 mg three times daily for seven consecutive days.
How much of the metabolites in Metronidazole are eliminated?
Metabolism/Excretion. The major route of elimination of Metronidazole and its metabolites is via the urine (60% to 80% of the dose), with fecal excretion accounting for 6% to 15% of the dose.
How long does it take for metronidazole to be absorbed?
Following oral administration, Metronidazole is well absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations occurring between one and two hours after administration.
How long does it take for a newborn to eliminate Metronidazole?
In infants whose gestational ages were between 28 and 40 weeks, the corresponding elimination half-lives ranged from 109 to 22.5 hours.
What are the mechanisms of resistance to Metronidazole?
Resistance may be due to multiple mechanisms that include decreased uptake of the drug, altered reduction efficiency, overexpression of the efflux pumps, inactivation of the drug, and/ or increased DNA damage repair.
How to use 0.75 % metronidazole?
Use this medication on the skin only. Wash and dry your hands before and after applying this medication. Wash and dry the area to be treated. Wait 15 minutes, then apply a thin layer of medication usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor.
What is rosacea medication used for?
Uses. This medication is used on the skin to treat a certain skin disorder known as rosacea, a type of adult acne. It may help to decrease redness, swelling and the number of pimples caused by rosacea.This medication is an antibiotic.
How many mg of trichomoniasis is given a day?
However, the dose is usually not more than 4000 mg per day. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. For trichomoniasis infections: Adults—The tablet can be given 3 different ways: as a single dose of 2 grams, as 1 gram 2 times a day for 1 day, or as 250 milligrams (mg) 3 times a day for 7 days.
How to store a med?
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
Can you take IBM Micromedex with food?
Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. The capsules can be taken with or without food. If the medicine upsets your stomach, it is best to take it with a meal or snack.
How often should I take vancomycin?
AAP Recommendations:#N#1 month or older: 7.5 mg/kg orally (or IV) every 6 hours for 10 days#N#Maximum dose: 500 mg/dose#N#IDSA and SHEA Recommendations for Children:#N#-Initial episode or first recurrence of nonsevere CDI: 7.5 mg/kg orally 3 or 4 times a day#N#-Initial episode of severe/fulminant CDI: 10 mg/kg IV 3 times a day#N#Maximum dose: 500 mg/dose#N#Duration of therapy: 10 days#N#Comments:#N#-AAP: Recommended for the first occurrence or first recurrence of mild to moderate CDI (oral formulation preferred)#N#-AAP: With vancomycin, recommended as IV therapy for the first occurrence of severe and complicated CDI#N#---Severe and complicated CDI may be characterized by intensive care unit admission, hypotension/shock, pseudomembranous colitis by endoscopy, ileus, or toxic megacolon.#N#-AAP: This drug should not be used beyond the first recurrence or for chronic therapy due to possible neurotoxicity.#N#-IDSA and SHEA: Recommended for the oral treatment of children with an initial episode or first recurrence of nonsevere CDI#N#---If this drug was used for the primary episode, vancomycin should be used for a first recurrence.#N#-IDSA and SHEA: For severe/fulminant CDI associated with critical illness, the addition of this IV drug to oral vancomycin may be considered.#N#-Current guidelines should be consulted for additional information.
How much AAP should I take for balantidiasis?
AAP and US CDC Recommendations: 35 to 50 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses for 5 days#N#-Maximum dose: 750 mg/dose#N#Comments:#N#-Recommended as an alternative regimen for balantidiasis due to B coli#N#-Current guidelines should be consulted for additional information.
Is adjustment recommended for mild to moderate renal dysfunction?
Mild to moderate renal dysfunction: No adjustment recommended.#N#Severe renal dysfunction or ESRD (not on hemodialysis): Data not available#N#Comments:#N#-Accumulation of metabolites may occur in severe renal dysfunction or ESRD (not on hemodialysis); monitoring for drug-related side effects is recommended.
How It Works
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is used to treat a wide variety of infections.
May Treat: Trichomoniasis · Acute intestinal amebiasis due to Entamoeba histolytica · Lower respiratory infection · Liver abscess amebiasis due to Entamoeba histolytica · Bacteroides liver abscess and more
Brand Names: Flagyl · Metrogel · Noritate · MetroCream · Rosadan and more
Drug Class: Antiprotozoal-Antibacterial 1st Generation 2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole · Dermatological - Rosacea Therapy, Topical · Vaginal Antiprotozoal-Antibacterial - Nitroimidazole Derivatives
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
May Treat: Trichomoniasis · Acute intestinal amebiasis due to Entamoeba histolytica · Lower respiratory infection · Liver abscess amebiasis due to Entamoeba histolytica · Bacteroides liver abscess and more
Brand Names: Flagyl · Metrogel · Noritate · MetroCream · Rosadan and more
Drug Class: Antiprotozoal-Antibacterial 1st Generation 2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole · Dermatological - Rosacea Therapy, Topical · Vaginal Antiprotozoal-Antibacterial - Nitroimidazole Derivatives
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before using
Lactation: Consult a doctor before using
Alcohol: Avoid intake while taking this medication
Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution
- Use sunscreen
- For gel with applicator products : If available, read the patient package insert. Read instructions carefully. Insert into the vagina as directed. Avoid alcohol during therapy & 24 hrs after. Usually used at bedtime. Avoid alcohol in drinks, foods, and medicines. Refrain from intercourse during therapy. Call doctor if you are not better in 5 days.
- For lotion products : For external use only. Wash hands before and after using. Clean and dry skin, then use a thin layer on area. Keep away from eyes. Avoid sun lamps/prolonged direct sun. Call doctor if you are not better in 3 weeks. Ask doctor before use in other conditions. Follow directions on best place to keep drug supply.
- Use sunscreen
- For gel with applicator products : If available, read the patient package insert. Read instructions carefully. Insert into the vagina as directed. Avoid alcohol during therapy & 24 hrs after. Usually used at bedtime. Avoid alcohol in drinks, foods, and medicines. Refrain from intercourse during therapy. Call doctor if you are not better in 5 days.
- For lotion products : For external use only. Wash hands before and after using. Clean and dry skin, then use a thin layer on area. Keep away from eyes. Avoid sun lamps/prolonged direct sun. Call doctor if you are not better in 3 weeks. Ask doctor before use in other conditions. Follow directions on best place to keep drug supply.
- For tablet products : Avoid alcohol during and for 3 days after therapy. Take with food or milk to lessen stomach upset. Take with meals at evenly spaced intervals. May make you dizzy. Use caution when driving. Success is dependent on completing therapy course. May darken urine while taking this drug. Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor.
Upsides
Downsides
Bottom Line
Tips
- Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic means "living without air".
- Once absorbed, metronidazole diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cell death. However, the e...
- Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic means "living without air".
- Once absorbed, metronidazole diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cell death. However, the e...
- Metronidazole belongs to a class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles.
Response and Effectiveness
- Has good penetration into tissue and may be used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria that occur in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary area, in th...
- Active against the following types of bacteria: gram-positive anaerobes (Clostridium species, Eubacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species); gram-negative an…
- Has good penetration into tissue and may be used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria that occur in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary area, in th...
- Active against the following types of bacteria: gram-positive anaerobes (Clostridium species, Eubacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species); gram-negative anaerobes (some Ba...
- May be used in the treatment of symptomatic and asymptomatic T. vaginalis infections. Male sexual partners of people with Trichomoniasisinfections should be treated simultaneously. Isolating the or...
- May be used in the treatment of acute intestinal amebiasis (amebic dysentery) and amebic li…
Interactions
- If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: 1. A headache, nausea, diarrhea, an unpleasant metallic taste, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage to fingers and toes), or a rash are common side effects. Rarely, seizures. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effe…
Further Information
- Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is particularly effective at treating infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and parasites. Alcohol and products containing propylene glycol should...
Medical uses
- May be taken with or without food.
- Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. For some infections, metronidazole may be given as a single dose. For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten day...
- Do not crush, break, or chew extended-release metronidazole tablets. Swallow them whole.
- May be taken with or without food.
- Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. For some infections, metronidazole may be given as a single dose. For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten day...
- Do not crush, break, or chew extended-release metronidazole tablets. Swallow them whole.
- Avoid alcohol or products containing propylene glycol (found in some flavored iced teas, frostings, and salad dressings) while taking metronidazole, and for three days after the course of metronida...
Administration
- Peak concentrations are reached within one to two hours after dosing; however, it may take up to 48 hours before infection-related symptoms start to abate.
Prognosis
- Medicines that interact with metronidazole may either decrease its effect, affect how long it works for, increase side effects, or have less of an effect when taken with metronidazole. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of the medications; however, sometimes it does. Speak to your doctor about how drug interactions sh…
Risks
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use metronidazole only for the indication prescribed. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Copyright 1996-2022 Drugs.com. Revision date: May 23, 2022. Medical Disclaimer
Prevention
- Metronidazole capsules and tablets are used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, heart, bone, joint, lung, blood, nervous system, and other areas of the body. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Metronidazole extended-release (long-acting) tabl...
Diagnosis
- Metronidazole comes as a tablet, an extended-release tablet, and as a capsule to take by mouth. Metronidazole capsules and tablets are usually taken as a one-time dose (or divided into two doses on 1 day) or two to four times daily for up to 10 days or longer. Metronidazole extended-release tablets are usually taken once daily at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal for 7 d…
Interactions
- Continue to take this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking this medication too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
Treatment
- Metronidazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Preparation
- Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light, excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resista…