Metronidazole Dawa (Metronidazole)

Metronidazole Dawa is a nitroimidazole antibiotic used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa.

• Bacterial vaginosis: eliminates the anaerobic bacteria responsible for the condition, relieving discharge and odor.
• Trichomoniasis: eradicates Trichomonas vaginalis, curing the infection and preventing recurrence.
• Amoebiasis: destroys Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites, treating intestinal and extra‑intestinal disease.
• Anaerobic bacterial infections: targets intra‑abdominal, skin and soft‑tissue infections caused by obligate anaerobes.
• Clostridioides difficile infection (adjunct): reduces toxin‑producing bacteria when used alongside standard therapy.

• Metronidazole penetrates susceptible microbial cells and undergoes reduction of its nitro group, generating reactive nitro radicals. These free radicals interact with DNA, causing strand breakage and inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis, ultimately leading to cell death of anaerobic bacteria and susceptible protozoa.

Metronidazole may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Metallic taste: transient metallic sensation in the mouth.
• Diarrhea: loose stools that resolve after therapy.
• Abdominal discomfort: cramping or pain in the abdomen.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Seizures: neurological events requiring immediate medical attention.
• Peripheral neuropathy: tingling or numbness in extremities.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, rash, or swelling of the face and throat.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Renal function assessment: adjust dose in patients with impaired kidney function.
• Avoid alcohol: concurrent intake can cause a disulfiram‑like reaction.
• Hepatic impairment caution: monitor liver enzymes in patients with liver disease.
• Neuropathy monitoring: discontinue if signs of peripheral neuropathy appear.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if the potential benefit outweighs the unknown risk.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and heat.

Metronidazole can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol: may cause severe flushing, tachycardia, and hypotension.
• Warfarin: potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk.
• Lithium: may raise lithium serum concentrations, leading to toxicity.
• Disulfiram: additive disulfiram‑like reactions.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Cimetidine: can increase metronidazole plasma levels.
• Phenytoin: may reduce metronidazole concentrations, lowering effectiveness.
• Oral contraceptives: may reduce hormonal efficacy, requiring additional contraception.