Metronidazol Deltamedica (Metronidazole)

Metronidazole is employed to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and susceptible protozoa.

• Bacterial vaginosis: eliminates the anaerobic bacteria responsible for the condition, reducing discharge and odor.
• Trichomoniasis: eradicates Trichomonas vaginalis, relieving itching, irritation and abnormal discharge.
• Clostridioides difficile infection: suppresses toxin‑producing bacteria in the colon, aiding resolution of diarrhea.
• Intra‑abdominal infections: provides broad anaerobic coverage, helping control peritonitis and abscess formation.
• Bacterial meningitis: penetrates the cerebrospinal fluid to treat susceptible anaerobic pathogens, improving outcomes.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease: targets anaerobic organisms contributing to inflammation, supporting recovery.

• Metronidazole enters anaerobic microbial cells by passive diffusion. Inside, low‑redox potential enzymes reduce the nitro group to reactive nitro radicals. These radicals interact with DNA, causing strand breakage and loss of helical structure, and also inhibit nucleic acid synthesis. The resulting damage leads to bacterial and protozoal cell death while sparing aerobic cells. The selective activation in low‑oxygen environments accounts for its efficacy against obligate anaerobes and certain protozoa.

Metronidazole may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset that may be transient and resolve without intervention.
• Metallic taste: a temporary metallic sensation in the mouth, usually disappearing after therapy.
• Headache: mild to moderate head pain that can be managed with simple analgesics.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that usually resolve after treatment but may require hydration.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): rapid onset of hives, swelling, breathing difficulty and possible shock.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: serious skin reaction with blistering, detachment and mucosal involvement.
• Peripheral neuropathy: tingling, numbness or burning in extremities, potentially persistent after therapy.
• Seizures: convulsions occurring during therapy, requiring immediate medical attention.

Before using Metronidazol Deltamedica, healthcare professionals should consider several safety measures.

• Assess renal function: adjust dose in patients with impaired kidney function.
• Monitor for allergic reactions: discontinue if signs of hypersensitivity appear.
• Use with caution in CNS disorders: seizures may be precipitated in susceptible individuals.
• Avoid alcohol: concurrent intake can cause a disulfiram‑like reaction.
• Pregnancy category B: may be used if benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Metronidazol Deltamedica can affect, or be affected by, several concomitant medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: concurrent consumption may cause a severe disulfiram‑like reaction characterized by flushing, nausea, vomiting and tachycardia.
• Warfarin: metronidazole can potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding and requiring INR monitoring.
• Lithium: co‑administration may raise serum lithium concentrations, heightening the chance of lithium toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Cimetidine: this H2‑blocker can inhibit hepatic metabolism of metronidazole, leading to higher drug levels.
• Oral contraceptives: metronidazole may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control, so additional contraceptive methods are advised.