Metronidazole Crescent Pharma (Metronidazole)

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

• Bacterial vaginosis: restores normal vaginal flora by eliminating anaerobic overgrowth.
• Trichomoniasis: eradicates Trichomonas vaginalis, relieving symptoms and preventing transmission.
• Amoebiasis: clears intestinal Entamoeba histolytica infection and associated dysentery.
• Intra‑abdominal anaerobic infections: controls mixed bacterial populations in peritonitis and abscesses.
• Clostridioides difficile infection (adjunct): reduces toxin‑producing bacterial load when used with standard therapy.

• Metronidazole is reduced inside susceptible microorganisms, forming reactive nitro radicals that bind to DNA and other macromolecules. This damage disrupts nucleic acid synthesis and leads to loss of cellular integrity, ultimately killing anaerobic bacteria and protozoa while sparing most aerobic cells.

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

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Metallic taste: transient metallic sensation in the mouth.
• Diarrhea: loose stools, often self‑limiting.
• Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Loss of appetite: reduced desire to eat.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Seizures: neurologic events requiring immediate care.
• Peripheral neuropathy: tingling or numbness in extremities.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: serious skin and mucous membrane disorder.
• Hepatic toxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Neutropenia: marked reduction in white blood cells.

Before prescribing Metronidazole, clinicians should consider several safety factors.

• Renal function assessment: adjust use in severe renal impairment.
• Hepatic monitoring: watch for liver enzyme elevation during prolonged therapy.
• Alcohol avoidance: prevent disulfiram‑like reaction.
• Pregnancy caution: discuss potential risks with a healthcare professional.
• Pediatric use: dose and duration should be carefully determined by the prescriber.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Metronidazole interacts with several medicines; some require avoidance while others need close monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: may cause severe flushing, tachycardia, and hypotension.
• Warfarin: can enhance anticoagulant effect and increase bleeding risk.
• Lithium: may raise lithium serum concentrations, leading to toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Oral contraceptives: may reduce effectiveness, consider backup method.
• Cimetidine: can increase metronidazole plasma levels.
• Rifampin: may lower metronidazole concentrations, reducing efficacy.