Metronidazol B. Braun (Metronidazole)

Metronidazol B. Braun is a nitroimidazole that targets anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. It is employed in several clinical scenarios:

• Anaerobic bacterial infections: eradicates susceptible anaerobes and resolves infection.
• Bacterial vaginosis: restores normal vaginal flora by eliminating pathogenic anaerobes.
• Trichomoniasis: eliminates Trichomonas vaginalis, relieving symptoms.
• Intra‑abdominal infections: provides coverage for mixed aerobic‑anaerobic infections after surgery.
• Surgical prophylaxis for anaerobic coverage: reduces postoperative infection risk when anaerobes are anticipated.

• Metronidazole enters susceptible microorganisms and undergoes intracellular reduction of its nitro group. The reduced metabolites bind to DNA, causing strand breakage and inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis, which leads to cell death in anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.

Metronidazol B. Braun may cause a range of adverse reactions. Most are mild and reversible, but serious events can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Metallic taste: transient metallic sensation in the mouth.
• Headache: mild to moderate headache.
• Diarrhea: loose stools during therapy.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Seizures: rare neurologic events, especially with high doses.
• Peripheral neuropathy: tingling or numbness in extremities.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, rash, or swelling requiring immediate medical attention.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Assess renal function: adjust therapy if creatinine clearance is reduced.
• Monitor liver enzymes: watch for hepatic toxicity during prolonged use.
• Avoid alcohol: concurrent intake can cause a disulfiram‑like reaction.
• Use with caution in pregnancy: category B3 indicates potential risk; weigh benefits against risks.
• Adjust dose in hepatic impairment: reduced clearance may require dose modification.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze.

Metronidazol B. Braun can alter the activity of other medicines. Awareness of key interactions helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: may trigger severe flushing, nausea, and tachycardia.
• Warfarin: potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk.
• Lithium: can raise lithium serum levels, risking toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Cimetidine: may increase metronidazole plasma concentrations.
• Oral contraceptives: may reduce hormonal efficacy, requiring alternative contraception.