metronidazole

Last reviewed 08/2022

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that acts on anaerobes. The active form of the drug is a reduced derivative; it appears that this is produced intracellularly only at low redox values - i.e. only in anaerobes. It acts by inducing strand breakages in the DNA.

Cautions:

• DISULFIRAM-LIKE REACTION WITH ALCOHOL
• hepatic impairment
• pregnancy and breast feeding

Contra-indications:

• porphyria

Side-effects:

• nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal disturbances
• drowsiness
• headaches
• rashes
• leucopenia
• darkens urine
• peripheral neuropathy with prolonged treatment
• dizziness
• ataxia
• transient epileptiform seizures with high doses

Routes of administration:

• Oral: - tablets - suspension
• per rectum
• i.v. infusion

The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.