Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Metronidazole is an effective antimicrobial used to treat a range of bacterial and parasitic infections, including those affecting the skin, vagina, blood, heart, bones, stomach, liver, joints, nervous system, respiratory tract, and other parts of the body.
This medication is also prescribed for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The extended-release form of metronidazole is used for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in women, which is caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina.
Metronidazole belongs to a class of drugs known as nitroimidazole antimicrobials, and works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. This medication is only effective against infections caused by bacteria and is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Uses and Dosage
Metronidazole is available in tablet, extended-release tablet, and capsule form for oral consumption. The dosage of metronidazole capsules and tablets is usually taken as a single dose or divided into two doses over a single day, or two to four times a day for up to 10 days or longer.
The extended-release tablets are to be taken once a day, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal, for seven days. The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be split, chewed, or crushed.
Even if you start to feel better, continue taking the medication as prescribed. Discontinuing the medication without consulting your doctor can lead to a partial treatment of the infection and an increased risk of bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
- heartburn
- sensation of spinning
- stomach cramps
- trouble sleeping
- weight loss
- change in taste sensation
- congestion
- dry mouth
- pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
- tender, swollen glands in the neck
- trouble with swallowing
- unpleasant or sharp metallic taste
- voice changes
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- agitation
- back pain
- blindness
- blurred vision
- burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations in the hands or feet
- changes in speech patterns
- confusion
- decreased vision
- depression
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- eye pain
- fever
- headache
- irritability
- lack of coordination
- nausea
- seeing or hearing things that are not there
- seizures
- shakiness and unsteady walk
- slurred speech
- stiff neck or back
- trouble speaking
- unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vomiting
- weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
Caution
Before commencing treatment with metronidazole, inform your physician or pharmacist of any allergies, including any antibiotics like tinidazole. Note that this medication may contain inactive ingredients which could result in allergic reactions or other issues. Please consult with your pharmacist for further information.
Share your medical history, specifically regarding liver disease, kidney disease, low blood cell counts, or the rare genetic disorder Cockayne syndrome, with your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking this medication.
Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages and products containing propylene glycol during the course of treatment and for at least three days after finishing the medication as it could cause severe stomach upset, cramping, nausea, vomiting, headache, and flushing.
Metronidazole may cause dizziness, and the consumption of alcohol or marijuana can increase this effect. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you are certain that it can be performed safely.
While pregnant, this medication should only be used when deemed necessary by a physician. It may be present in breast milk, and the benefits and risks should be discussed with your doctor before breast-feeding. If a single-dose treatment is prescribed, your physician may advise you to temporarily stop breast-feeding after the dose. Please consult with your doctor for further details.
Form and Strength
Flagyl is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
metronidazole tablet:
- 250mg
- 400mg
FAQ
How many hours does metronidazole stay in your system?
How long does metronidazole stay in your system? For most people, metronidazole may still be present in the body up to 40 hours after your last dose. But for people with liver problems, this time could rise to 6 days.
What bacteria does metronidazole get rid of?
Metronidazole is highly active against gram-negative anaerobic bacteria, such as B. fragilis, and gram-positive anaerobic bacteria, such as C. difficile.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/metronidazole/drinking-alcohol-metronidazole-safety
- https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/50/Supplement_1/S16/365006?login=false
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metronidazole-oral-route/precautions/drg-20064745?p=1
- https://www.drugs.com/flagyl.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7644/flagyl-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689011.html
