Metronidazole

Information about Metronidazole

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole derivative bactericidal agent widely used in the treatment of many anaerobic and certain protozoan and parasitic infections.

Liver safety of Metronidazole

Metronidazole has been linked to rare instances of acute, clinically apparent liver injury.

Mechanism of action of Metronidazole

Metronidazole (met" roe nid' a zole) is a nitroimidazole antibiotic that is activated by reduction of its nitro group by susceptible organisms. The activated form of metronidazole is a highly reactive radical anion which targets and damages large protein molecules and DNA. Mammalian cells do not ordinarily activate metronidazole, which accounts for its lack of toxicity in humans.

FDA approval information for Metronidazole

Metronidazole was approved for use in the United States in 1963 and currently several million prescriptions are filled yearly.

Clinical use of Metronidazole

Metronidazole is indicated for treatment and prophylaxis of infections with susceptible anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.

Dosage and administration for Metronidazole

The recommended dosage is 500 to 750 mg taken orally three times daily for 5 to 10 days. Metronidazole is available alone in tablets of 250, 375, 500 and 750 mg as well as in combination with other medications, in multiple generic formulations and under several brand names including Flagyl, Metryl, Noritate, Pylera and Helida. Other formulations include injectable solutions, extended release tablets, suppositories, and topical creams.

Side effects of Metronidazole

The most common side effects include metallic taste, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.

The article on Metronidazole is a stub. YOU can help Wikimd by expanding it!

Medication resources

WikiMD is a sponsored by W8MD Weight loss, sleep and medical aesthetics.

Learn more

• Dailymed label info
• Scientific articles

edit 

About WikiMD

About us: WikiMD is a free medical encyclopedia and wellnesspedia moderated by medical professionals.

Our mission: Provide up to date physician reviewed health, nutrition and wellness information for free in over 100 languages.

Join us: This article is a stub. Help improve Metronidazole or others. Do not trust amateurs with your life! Join us in this effort!. Paid editors welcome.