How does it work?

Metronidazole belongs to a group of antibiotics called the azoles. It works by entering the cell and binding to genetic material (DNA). This prevents the formation of further genetic material and therefore stops the bacteria from reproducing. Metronidazole is an antibiotic specifically used to stop the spread of infections which do not require oxygen to grow. These sorts of microorganisms commonly infect the gut, bones, brain and lungs.

What is it used for?

Bacteria of the gut that can cause ulcers

Bacterial vaginosis

Dental infections

Infection caused by the amoeba Entamoeba histolytica which occur outside of the the gut in other organs of the body.

Infection that is caused by bacteria that grow without the need for oxygen (anaerobic bacteria)

Leg ulcers

Painful inflammation and ulcers of the gums (ulcerative gingivitis)

Parasitic gut infection caused by the protozoa Giardia lamblia

Prevention of infection (usually after surgery)

Sores caused by lying or sitting in the same position for long periods of time (pressure sores)

Sudden severe diarrhoea due to infection caused by the amoeba Entamoeba histolytica (acute amoebic dysentry)

Type of infection of the kidney, bladder and urethra (urogenital trichomoniasis)

Warning!

Clinical and laboratory monitoring is advised if treatment exceeds 10 days.

Use with caution in

Decreased liver function

Impairment of brain function caused by liver disease

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy. High dosage regimens should be avoided. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is recommended that mothers should avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Avoid alcoholic drink whilst taking this medication.

Take at regular intervals. Complete the prescribed course unless otherwise directed.

Take this medication with or after food.

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

This medication is to be taken with plenty of water.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Abdominal pain

Fits (convulsions)

Severe swelling of lips, face or tongue (angioedema)

Disorder of the peripheral nerves causing weakness and numbness (peripheral neuropathy)

Dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

Bitter or metallic taste

Itchy rash (urticaria)

Sensation of a furry tongue

Darkens the colour of the urine

Skin rashes

Headache

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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