This article is not medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or use the medication guide.

Metronidazole Information

What is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole is a drug used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria and parasites (protozoa). This medication has antibiotic and antiprotozoal effects. It works by inhibiting the spread and growth of these microorganisms in the stomach, vagina, heart, brain, skin, joints, and the respiratory system.

Metronidazole antibiotic can be used in people and pets (dogs, cats, and fish). You cannot buy Metronidazole over the counter since this is a prescription-only drug. One reason for this is that this drug has a black box warning about the risk of cancer. So, your doctor has to determine whether it’s safe for you first.

Metronidazole class

Metronidazole belongs to a classification of antibiotic medications known as nitroimidazole. These are drugs used to treat amebiasis, inflammatory lesions of rosacea, trichomoniasis, and bacterial infections.

Metronidazole brand name

Metronidazol is the generic version of Flagyl. You’ll get it in the trade names below;

• Flagyl
• Flagyl ER
• Flagyl IV RTU

Metronidazole forms and strengths

Metronidazole is available in the following forms and strengths;

• Tablets: 250 mg and 500 mg
• Tablets (extended-release): 750 mg
• Capsule: 375 mg
• Infusion solution: 500 mg/100mL
• Metronidazole gel: 0.75% (7.5mg/g)
• Metronidazole cream: 0.75% (7.5mg/g)

Proper use of Metronidazole

Proper use of Metronidazole will depend on the form and strength of the medication and the disease that you’re treating. How your system responds to the drug will also come into play. By and large, Metronidazole should only be used when prescribed by a doctor due to its potential carcinogenic risk to humans and animals.

Metronidazole tablet should be swallowed with a glass of water. Most people prefer taking it with food or milk to prevent stomach upsets. You may split a Metronidazole 500 mg into 2 if the patient can’t swallow the tablet whole. However, you should not break Metronidazole capsules unless your doctor advises you to do so. Splitting the pill may release the medication at once leading to Metronidazole side effects.

Metronidazole extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole too. Importantly, you should take these tablets without food. You may also administer them one hour before meal or at least 3 hours after eating. If you’re using Metronidazole liquid or syrup, shake it well before measuring. Always use the measuring device included in the package and not a teaspoon or tablespoon.

Proper use of Metronidazole vaginal gel

When using Vandazole (Metronidazole vaginal gel 0.75), break the metallic seal on the tube and screw the applicator on the opening of the tube. Next, squeeze the recommended dosage of the gel into the applicator. If you’re using Metronidazole 500 mg tablet, place the tablet on the applicator and wet it for some seconds.

With your applicator ready, lay on your back with your knees bent, then hold the applicator in one hand and insert it inside the vagina slowly and stop before it’s uncomfortable. Next, press the plunger slowly to eject the gel then pull out the applicator.

It’s recommended to lay still for 30 minutes after administration. Continue administering the vaginal gel for the recommended period. The best time to apply Metronidazole gel is during bedtime.

Metronidazole and sex

Can you have sex while taking Metronidazole? Experts recommend not to have penetrative sex while using this medication. First, sexual intercourse may inhibit the effectiveness of the drug. Second, there is the risk of transmitting the disease to your partner who can then give it back to you.

Proper use of Metronidazole topical cream

Topical Metronidazole is used to clear swelling, redness, and pimples as a result of rosacea- a type of acne in adults. After washing (and drying) apply a thin layer of Metronidazole topical cream 0.75 on the affected part and rub gently. You may wear makeup or lotion on top of the cream.

Can I stop taking Metronidazole early?

It’s advisable to complete your Metronidazole (Flagyl generic) dosage even if the symptoms will clear just a few days after starting. Failure to use it for the full prescribed period may increase your risk of reinfection.

Metronidazole dosage

Metronidazole for humans

Your physician will prescribe the proper dosage for your condition depending on the symptoms. Metronidazole Flagyl dosage is personalized to an individual’s weight, symptoms and medical history. As such, you should never self-treat with another patient’s Metronidazole otc dosage even if your symptoms look similar.

Metronidazole for bv dosage

• Metronidazole for bv (tablets): Your doctor will determine the proper dose based on your weight. The standard dosage is 7.5 mg/kg of body weight taken orally every 6 hours for 7-10 days. For most adults, the dose is usually Metronidazole 500 mg 4 tablets at once or Metronidazole 400mg taken twice a day orally.
• Metronidazole gel for bv: follow your doctor’s recommendation or the instructions on the patient information leaflet when using Metronidazole gel. The common dosage for adults is Metronidazole gel 1 applicator-ful (approx. 5g comprising 37.5 mg of Metronidazole). Administer the gel intravaginally once or twice daily for 5 days.

How long does Metronidazole gel take to work for bv

A 5-day regimen is the most common prescription, and you may feel a relief by the end of this period. However, it may take up to a week after the last dosage for a full recovery. If bv not responding to Metronidazole gel, you may need to consult your doctor for a checkup. You may be prescribed a different form of therapy after this, for instance, Metronidazole pills for bv. This won’t be necessary if the symptoms clear.

Can I pee after using Metronidazole gel? Yes. You can comfortably use the toilet 30 minutes after administering Metronidazole vaginal gel.

Metronidazole dosage for trichomoniasis

Metronidazole for trichomoniasis dosage is taking Metronidazole 500 mg twice a day for 7 days. There is also an option to take a single dose of four tablets of Metronidazole 500 mg (that is 2g) daily. However, most Metronidazole reviews show that the single high dose therapy isn’t as effective as taking one Metronidazole 500 tablet twice a day.

How long does Metronidazole take to cure trichomoniasis?

Trich takes 7-10 days to cure after treatment with Metronidazole. However, it’s advisable to go for a checkup as most people don’t show symptoms. Also, it’s common for the infection to resurface a few months following treatment. Your sex partner(s) should seek treatment also before you can have sex again.

Metronidazole for acne

Metronidazole cream rosacea is used to reduce redness and pimples, usually on the face, in adults suffering from rosacea. Always follow your doctor’s direction when applying Metronidazole 0.75 cream. The commonly prescribed dosage of Metronidazole topical gel is applying a thin film on the affected region (should be clean and dry) twice a day for 9 weeks.

How long does Metronidazole take to work?

When using Metronidazole gel for acne, you should notice an improvement by the end of the third week after starting the therapy. If you can’t see any difference by the third week, you may want to check with your physician. However, note that full treatment may take up to 9 weeks.

Metronidazole for diarrhea

Metronidazole is a common medication when treating giardiasis- an intestinal infection characterized by watery diarrhea and greasy stool. The doctor will work out your dosage depending on your symptoms. The common dose is taking a Metronidazole 500 mg tablet three times a day for 10-14 days.

Metronidazole for std

Metronidazole for Chlamydia is used to treat symptoms, such as discharge from penis, abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, and pain. The recommended Metronidazole dosage for Chlamydia is 2 grams taken by mouth as a single dose plus erythromycin 500 mg orally 4 times every day for 7 days.

Missed dose

If you’ve missed your dose of Metronidazole medication, you should take it when you remember during the day. However, if it’s close to your next dosage of that day, don’t take the missed dose. Wait for the next dosage and carry on according to your schedule to avoid overdosing. On the same note, do not take two doses of Metronidazole to make up for a missed dose.

Uses- What is Metronidazole used for?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used as a first-line or second-line treatment for a wide range of bacterial and parasitic infections, such as;

• Bacterial vaginosi
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Trichomoniasis
• Giardiasis
• Clostridium defficile
• Tooth abscess
• Diabetic foot infection
• Bite
• H. Pyloris
• Rosacea (adult acne)

Your doctor may prescribe this medication for other diseases and medical conditions not listed here. You can also buy Metronidazole to treat infections in pets (cats, dogs, and fish).

Before using

Before taking any form of Metronidazole, here are a few things that you should discuss with your physician;

1. Let your doctor known if you’ve ever suffered from any of the following diseases;

   • Fungal infection (anywhere in your body)
   • Liver disease
   • Kidney disease
   • Nerve disorder
   • Nervous system disease
   • Any blood cell disorder, including low white blood cell count and anemia
   • Intestinal disease, for instance, Crohn’s disease
   • Cockayne syndrome

2. You should not take Metronidazole if you’ve ever had an allergic response to it.

3. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or are planning to get pregnant while using this medication. Also, you should check with your doctor if you conceive while using Metronidazole.

4. Inform your doctor if you’re breastfeeding before starting Metronidazole therapy.

5. Long term use of high doses of Metronidazole has shown a potential risk of causing cancer in animal studies. If you’re scheduled to take this medication for a long period, ask your physician about this risk.

Metronidazole Allergy

Metronidazole does not cause allergies for most people. However, you should not take this drug if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it before. Although rare, an allergic reaction to Metronidazole may be life-threatening and may have symptoms, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the tongue and throat. Contact the Poison Control Center if you suspect any of these symptoms.

Metronidazole interactions

Metronidazole interacts with over 300 drugs and at least 7 diseases. It may also interact with alcohol-containing products, including cold and cough syrups, sanitizer, wipes, and aftershave.

The list below does not include all the drugs that interact with Metronidazole. So, make a list of all drugs that you’re taking or you’ve taken in the last two weeks and present it to your physician for expert advice.

Drugs that interact with Metronidazole

• Disulfiram
• Dronabinol
• Flibanserin
• Lomitapide
• Warfarin
• Azithromycin
• Cipro
• Fluconazole
• Hydroxyzine
• Zofran
• Lopinavir
• Lithium

Diseases that interact with Metronidazole

• Alcoholism
• Liver disease
• Dialysis
• Blood dyscrasia
• Colitis
• Neurologic toxicity
• Medical conditions that require sodium restriction, such as hypertension and congestive heart failure

Metronidazole and pregnancy

Can you take Metronidazole while pregnant? It is unlikely that taking Metronidazole when pregnant will have any harmful effects on the baby. Recent studies on the issue of taking Metronidazole during pregnancy have not found any significant risk for miscarriage regardless of pregnancy stage.

However, it’s important to mention that the FDA puts this medication in pregnancy category B. This means that animal studies didn’t show any potential harm on the fetus. Still, adequate and well-controlled studies in people are yet to be conducted. For that reason, it’s critical to discuss with your physician first before taking Metronidazole while pregnancy or if you’re planning to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding

When Metronidazole is administered orally, intravenously, topically, or through the vagina, its metabolites pass into breastmilk and then to the breastfeeding baby. But the amounts are considered very low to have significant effects on the child. Generally, a short Metronidazole iv course is deemed to be safe during breastfeeding.

After vaginal or topical administration, the amount of Metronidazole metabolites that get into the milk is much lower than oral and intravenous administrations. As such, the risk is considered to be much lower with these forms.

Importantly, Metronidazole exposure to pre-term infants has not yet been studied. Discuss with your doctor or pediatrician for the necessary considerations.

Metronidazole use in Pediatric

For children and newborns, Metronidazole treats and prevents various medical conditions, including brain abscess, osteomyelitis, pelvic abscess, septicaemia, and peritonitis. For children 10 years and above, Metronidazole is used to treat giardiasis, urogenital trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, acute dental infections, and various forms of amoebiasis.

Metronidazole warnings

1. Metronidazole has a black box warning about the risk of causing cancer. Therefore, unnecessary use of the medication is discouraged.

2. Metronidazole alcohol interaction may lead to adverse side effects, such as rapid heart rate, a dangerous drop in blood pressure, and liver damage.

3. Metronidazole causes dizziness. Do not operate a motor vehicle or machine unless you’re okay.

4. Metronidazole has severe interactions with certain medications like Disulfiram and Warfarin. It also reacts with over 300 different drugs and at least 7 days. Inform your doctor of your medical history and any drugs that you’re taking before starting Metronidazole therapy.

5. The metabolites of this drug may interact with lab tests leading to false results. Let the lab experts know that you’re using this medication beforehand.

6. Metronidazole uses, and dosages are personalized based on an individual’s condition, medical condition, and symptoms. Patients should not share doses.

Metronidazole side effects

These are the most common Metronidazole 500 mg side effects;

• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Yeast infection (candidiasis)
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Hypersensitivity
• Dark urine
• Nausea
• Pancreatitis
• Seizure
• Furry tongue
• Decreased libido
• Dry mouth
• Blood clot
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome
• Metallic taste
• Low count of white blood cell

Metronidazole gel side effects

The most common Metronidazole vaginal gel side effects are;

• Increased sweating
• Sleep problem
• Pelvic pain (cramps)
• Abdominal pain
• Vaginal itching
• Burning sensation when administering the drug
• Urinating more times than usual

Metronidazole cream side effects

Topical application of this medication may cause the following side effects;

• Scaly or itchy skin
• Dryness
• Burning or stinging sensation where you apply it
• Redness
• Skin irritation on the affected part

Metronidazole side effects how long do they last?

You may experience these side effects up to at least a day after your last dosage.

Proper storage of Metronidazole

You should store this drug in its original container in a cool and dry place. Do not store it in high moist areas, for instance, in the bathroom and near the kitchen sink. Again, please keep it away from direct heat, light, and children’s reach. Metronidazole suspension and liquid medicine may be refrigerated but not frozen.

Does Metronidazole expire?

Yes. Like other drugs, Metronidazole has an expiry date label on the package. After around one year in storage, this drug loses its value and ability to fight bacteria and parasites. As such, it should be discarded.

Metronidazole price

Metronidazole cost is considerably low compared to other medications in the amebicides class. The price varies from store to store, though. A 59ml bottle of Metronidazole lotion costs between $105 and $240. With a Metronidazole coupon, the price drops significantly to $56 and $87. A dosage of Metronidazole 250 mg tablet (14 counts) is sold at between $7 and $20. But with the best Metronidazole coupon, you get the same pack at $5-$6.

Metronidazole Mechanism of Action

After administration, Metronidazole penetrates the cells of the foreign microorganisms by dissolving across the cell membrane. Upon diffusion, Metronidazole alters the DNA of microbial cells, consequently inhibiting the production of nucleic acid. Nucleic acid carries the information of the cell and directs the process of protein synthesis. Without nucleic acid, microbial cells don’t synthesis enough protein, which is necessary for shape, organization, maintenance, and waste cleanup.

Metronidazole for pets

What is Metronidazole used for in dogs? Metronidazole canine therapy is used to treat protozoal infections, including Entamoeba, Trichomonas, Giardia, and Balantidium. Your veterinary may also prescribe it for anaerobic bacterial infections.

Metronidazole for dogs dosage

The proper dose of Metronidazole (Flagyl generic) for pets will depend on the severity of the medical problem and the weight of your canine friend. However, the typical Metronidazole dog diarrhea dosage ranges between 5 and 20 mg per kilogram of the dog’s weight. For example, Metronidazole dosage for 20 lb dog will be 45mg to 180mg depending on the dog’s condition. The medication is given in evenly divided doses for 10-14 days.

How to give Metronidazole for dogs

Metronidazole 250 mg for dogs should be administered orally with food. This medication is bitter, so it should not be crushed.

Metronidazole for dogs side effects

Metronidazole side effects in dogs may include;

• Regurgitation
• Drooling
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Neurological effects, including tremors, eye twitching, loss of coordination and muscle control, and weakness

Metronidazole for cats dosage

The frequent Metronidazole oral dose for cats with diarrhea is 3-20 mg per kilogram of the pet’s weight. It should be given orally and in divided doses depending on the cat’s condition.

Metronidazole for fish

Metronidazole 250 mg Fish Zole is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and parasites. The recommended dosage for this medication is 400-600 mg/1000 liters of water for 3 days. After the third day, replace all the water in the aquarium. You may also replace only half of the water and engage the carbon filtration system for 24-48 hours to remove the remaining amount of drug.