Metronidazole is a commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections.
This medication is highly effective against infections in the stomach, vagina, intestines, liver, skin, joints, brain, heart, and respiratory tract.
Metronidazole is available in two forms: immediate-release, which delivers the medication quickly into the body, and extended-release, which releases it'slowly over time. Both are available as generic medications.
What are the Uses of Metronidazole Tablets?
Metronidazole is available in several dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, syrup, Injection and cream or gel. It is widely used to treat different bacterial and parasitic infections with high success rates.
Stops Bacteria and Parasites: Metronidazole antibiotics stop the growth of bacteria and parasites.
Treats Infections: It is used to manage various infections, including dental, vaginal, gastrointestinal, and skin infections.
Not for Viral Infections: It doesn't work against viral illnesses such as the common cold or flu.
Type of Medication: Belongs to the nitroimidazole class of antimicrobials.
Risk of Unnecessary Use: Taking it unnecessarily may lead to drug resistance and increased infection risk.
How Does Metronidazole Work (Mechanism of Action)?
Metronidazole works by stopping the growth of bacteria and protozoa responsible for causing infections.
It interferes with the DNA synthesis of the microbes, making it impossible for them to multiply or survive.
Metronidazole is highly effective in treating gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria and parasites. For advanced care and expert evaluation, visit ourMedical Gastroenterology Department
Dosage Instructions of Metronidazole
Metronidazole is available in several dosage forms to treat various infections caused by bacteria and parasites. These forms allow for flexibility based on the type and severity of the infection.
Dosage Form
Common Strengths
Route of Administration
Common Use
Metronidazole Tablet
200 mg, 250 mg, 400 mg, 500 mg
Oral
Bacterial infections, amoebiasis, trichomoniasis
Metronidazole Extended-release Tablet
750 mg
Oral
Bacterial vaginosis, more sustained action
Metronidazole Capsule
375 mg
Oral
Various anaerobic infections
Metronidazole Benzoate Oral Suspension
200 mg/5 mL
Oral
Children or patients with swallowing issues
Metronidazole Injection (IV)
500 mg/100 mL
Intravenous
Severe or hospitalized infections
Topical Gel/Cream/Lotion
0.75%, 1%
Topical
Rosacea, skin infections
Metronidazole Vaginal Gel
0.75%
Intravaginal
Bacterial vaginosis
Dosage and form may differ based on infection type and severity. Get detailed guidance at Medicover Hospitals
How do you take Metronidazole tablets?
Metronidazole tablets are taken once a day or can be divided into two doses for up to 10 days.
The extended-release tablets are taken at least once a day before 1 hour or after 2 hours of meal.
Follow the directions in the prescription or consult a doctor before taking the medicines.
Swallow the full tablets without crushing or breaking them. Drink enough water to avoid vomiting.
Try to complete the total dosage of the tablets even after you feel better.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Metronidazole?
Missing one or two doses of Metronidazole won't have any effect on your body. The skipped dose causes no problem. However, with some medications, it won't work if you don't take the dosage on time.
If you miss a dose some sudden chemical change may affect your body. In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.
What Happens If I Take an Overdose of Metronidazole?
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Metronidazole tablets, there is a chance of having a harmful effect on your body's functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Symptoms of Overdose:
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or loss of balance
Seizures
Numbness or tingling
Seek immediate medical help if you suspect an overdose.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
If you have any of these serious symptoms, immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. The majority of the people who use this medicine don't show any side effects.
Precautions for Metronidazole
Before taking these tablets, visit your doctor and tell him if you are allergic to any of the medications. Also, share with your doctor if you're taking any medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products to avoid any medical emergencies.
Talk to your doctor if you have the following diseases:
Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages or any tobacco product while taking Metronidazole tablets. Alcohol consumption can cause some serious illness like:
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach cramps
Headaches
Sweating
Redness of the face
Who should avoid Metronidazole?
People with liver disease
If a person is suffering from liver disease, try avoiding the usage of this drug. Or, before taking Metronidazole, tell your doctor about the problems you are facing.
People with kidney disease
If you have kidney disease, then your body may process the drug very slowly. This can increase the amount of drug, and it can increase the high risk of side effects.
Pregnant women
Metronidazole's safety in pregnancy is not fully evaluated. Inform your doctor before use to avoid potential risks.
Breastfeeding
Metronidazole passes into breast milk and may cause side effects in breastfed infants, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or rash. Consult your doctor before using Metronidazole while breastfeeding.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Metronidazole?
Age-related dosage adjustments may be necessary for children or elderly patients.
Use in children should be under strict medical supervision.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Drug interactions may alter how Metronidazole works or increase the risk of side effects.
Talk to your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you're taking.
Possible interactions include anticoagulants, lithium, and disulfiram.
If you’re taking other medicines or need expert advice, consult ourGastroenterologistsfor safe and effective treatment recommendations.
How Should Metronidazole Be Stored?
Proper storage is important to maintain the effectiveness and safety of the medication.
Store at room temperature between 68ºF to 77ºF (20ºC to 25ºC).
Keep away from moisture, heat and direct sunlight.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
If Not Stored Properly: The medicine may lose effectiveness or become unsafe to use.
Consult your doctor before taking Metronidazole. If you experience side effects, seek immediate medical attention. Carry your medications when travelling and follow your doctor's prescription.
Metronidazole vs Azithromycin
Metronidazole
Azithromycin
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that helps in fighting with bacteria
It is Macrolide antibiotic
Side effects of Metronidazole are vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps and loss of appetite.
Side effects of Azithromycin are Rash, nervousness, tongue discolouration and indigestion
These are used to stop the growth of bacteria and parasites
It is used for the treatment of infections that are caused by bacteria such as bronchitis, pneumonia and infections of skin, throat, sinuses, lungs, ears and reproductive organ
Metronidazole can cause yeast infection. The symptoms that it shows are itching and discharge during or after the treatment with metronidazole infections.
It’s best to avoid smoking while taking metronidazole, as nicotine can irritate your stomach and may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
There is no such need to avoid any dairy products while having Metronidazole tablets. Rather it should be taken with water or milk.
To reduce side effects, take Metronidazole with food, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report severe symptoms.
When taking metronidazole, it's essential to monitor for signs of potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, and neurological symptoms like dizziness or headache. Additionally, healthcare providers may monitor liver function tests periodically due to the potential for liver toxicity with prolonged use.
Yes, Flagyl is a brand name for Metronidazole. They contain the same active ingredient and are used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections.
The typical maximum dose for adults is 2 grams per day, depending on the infection. Always follow your doctor's prescribed dose and schedule.
Yes, metronidazole is used to treat certain types of diarrhea caused by bacterial or parasitic infections, such as Clostridium difficile or Giardia.
Metronidazole stays in your body for about 24-48 hours after the last dose, though this can vary based on your metabolism and kidney function.
Metronidazole is an antibiotic. Alcohol should be avoided during treatment as it can cause severe nausea, vomiting, cramps, and headaches when combined.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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