Metronidazole: An Essential Overview

Summary or Key Points

Metronidazole, often known by its brand name Flagyl, is an antibiotic that fights bacteria and certain parasites in the body. It’s widely used to treat various infections, including those in the skin, stomach, and joints. Always consult with your doctor before starting Metronidazole, as it may interact with other medications.

Names of Medication

The brand name for this medication in the United States is Flagyl, with the generic name being Metronidazole. In simpler terms, a ‘generic name’ refers to the standard name of the drug, without any branding. The generic name is provided here in parenthesis.

Pharmacologic Category

Metronidazole is an antibiotic in the Nitroimidazoles class. Other drugs in this category include Tinidazole (Tindamax).

Dosing

The dosing for Metronidazole depends on the condition being treated. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Here are the typical doses:

• Bacterial Infections: 7.5 mg/kg orally every 6 hours for 7 to 10 days.
• Parasitic Infections: 750 mg orally three times a day for 5 to 10 days.
• Rosacea: Apply thin layer of topical cream, gel, or lotion to the affected area once or twice a day.
• Bacterial Vaginosis: 750 mg orally once daily for 7 days or 2 grams orally once.
• Trichomoniasis: 2 grams orally once or 500 mg orally twice a day for 7 days.
• Amebiasis: 500 to 750 mg orally three times a day for 5 to 10 days.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Metronidazole comes in various forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 250 mg, 500 mg
• Extended release tablets: 750 mg
• Capsules: 375 mg
• Topical cream: 0.75%, 1%
• Topical gel: 0.75%, 1%
• Topical lotion: 0.75%
• Injection: 500 mg/100 ml

Administration Instructions

Take Metronidazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, preferably while or after having a meal to reduce stomach upset. The topical forms should be applied to the affected area as instructed by your healthcare provider. Don’t forget, our providers are ready to assist you with a telemedicine consultation.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Side effects can occur with Metronidazole, though they are typically mild and go away on their own:

• Common: Nausea, headache, loss of appetite, mild abdominal cramping
• Uncommon: Taste changes, dry mouth, dark-colored urine
• Rare: Seizures, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, severe skin rash

If any side effects persist or worsen, please consult with a healthcare provider. Immediate telemedicine consultations are available with our providers.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient. Metronidazole should not be used in the following situations:

• Alcohol consumption: Metronidazole can interact with alcohol, leading to unpleasant effects such as rapid heart rate, nausea, and vomiting.
• First trimester of pregnancy: Metronidazole is generally avoided in the first trimester due to potential harm to the baby.
• Allergy to Metronidazole or similar drugs: Those with known hypersensitivity to Metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives should not take this medication.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Metronidazole may interact with other medications, including:

• Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Lithium (Lithobid)
• Phenobarbital (Luminal)
• Disulfiram (Antabuse)

Metronidazole in Pregnancy

Metronidazole should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed, especially during the first trimester. Always consult with a healthcare provider when considering this medication while pregnant.

Metronidazole while Breastfeeding

Metronidazole does pass into breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Consult with your healthcare provider for the best course of action if breastfeeding.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Metronidazole without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $10 to $20, depending on the dose and form.

Possible Alternatives

For each condition Metronidazole is used to treat, there may be alternative treatments or lifestyle modifications that could help. Always discuss these with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our providers are readily available for a telemedicine consultation.

Recent Updates on Metronidazole Research

Recent studies suggest that Metronidazole may have a potential role in treating certain viral infections, such as the common cold, in addition to its well-established uses. As always, continue to follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding your medication and stay tuned for more updates in the future.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.