Metronidazole is utilized to treat a wide array of infections brought on by certain kinds of germ (anaerobic bacteria) and kinds of micro-organisms called protozoa. These types of organisms frequently cause infections in areas of the body such as the gums, pelvic cavity and belly (stomach or intestinal tracts) since they do not need oxygen to grow and increase.
Metronidazole Usage
Metronidazole is typically prescribed to deal with an infection called bacterial vaginosis. It is also prescribed before gynaecological surgery and surgery on the intestinal tracts to avoid infection from establishing. It can securely be taken by individuals who are allergic to penicillin.
Metronidazole is also utilized, along with other medications, to get rid of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection frequently related to stomach ulcers.
Metronidazole is offered as a skin preparation likewise. This brochure does not provide information about metronidazole when it is used for skin problem, but there is more information offered in a different leaflet called Metronidazole skin gel and cream.
Metronidazole Precautions
Some medicines are not appropriate for individuals with particular conditions, and often a medication might only be utilized if extra care is taken. For these factors, before you begin taking metronidazole it is important that your doctor or dental professional knows:
- If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
- If you feel you will be unable to stop drinking alcohol for the duration of your treatment.
- If you have any issues with the way your liver works.
- If you have a rare acquired blood condition called porphyria.
- If you are taking other medicines. This consists of any medicines you are taking which are readily available to buy without a prescription, in addition to natural and complementary medications.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medication.
- Before you start this treatment, read the producer’s printed info brochure from inside your pack. The producer’s brochure will offer you more info about metronidazole and a full list of side-effects which you might experience from taking it.
- Take the tablets or liquid medicine exactly as your doctor or dental professional tells you to. The dosage you are given will depend upon what type of infection you have, and how serious the infection is.
- As a guide, a normal dosage for an adult would be 400 mg two or three times a day, but your dose may be basically than this. Dosages for kids depend upon the child’s age and weight. Your doctor will tell you what dosage is right for you (or your child), and this will also be printed on the label of the pack to advise you.
- Area your doses uniformly throughout the day, and keep taking the medication until the course is ended up, unless you are told to stop by your doctor. Your symptoms may return if you stop taking metronidazole prior to the end of the course prescribed for you.
- Take each of your doses with a snack or simply after eating a meal. Swallow the tablets entire (that is, without chewing or crushing them) with a complete glass of water.
- If you forget to take a dosage, take it as quickly as you remember and aim to space your remaining doses uniformly throughout the rest of the day. Do not take two dosages together to make up for a forgotten dosage.
If you have been offered metronidazole suppositories:
- Eliminate the suppository from its wrapping.
- Using your finger, gently press the suppository into your back passage as far as possible, pointed end first.
- Many people discover that inserting a suppository is simpler if they squat or bend forward.
- Stay still for a couple of minutes to help you to hold the suppository in place.
- Wash your hands.
- Quit alcohol.
- While you are taking metronidazole your urine might look a darker color than normal. By itself this is absolutely nothing to worry about. Nevertheless, if you also experience stomach (stomach) pain, or if you feel ill (queasiness) or feel normally unhealthy, you need to let your physician know.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with metronidazole. Some cough and cold preparations consist of alcohol and ought to not be taken with metronidazole.
- If you need to take metronidazole for longer than 10 days, your doctor may want you to have some tests. Make sure you keep any appointments that your physician provides to you.
How Long Does It Take for Metronidazole to Work?
Most courses of metronidazole last for around 7 days, however some may be as brief as 3 days and some as long as 14 days. For certain infections you may be given a single, bigger dosage of metronidazole, usually five 400 mg tablets (2 g) to take at the same time.
Possible Side Effects of Metronidazole
In addition to their beneficial results, a lot of medications can trigger unwanted side-effects although not everybody experiences them. The table below contains some of the ones related to metronidazole. You will discover a complete list in the producer’s info leaflet provided with your medication. The unwanted results often enhance as your body adjusts to the new medication, but talk with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become problematic.
If you experience other symptoms which you believe may be due to this medication, speak to your medical professional or pharmacist.
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of kids.
- Store in a cool, dry place, far from direct heat and light.
Never take more than the prescribed dosage. If you think that you or another person may have taken an overdose of this medication, go to the mishap and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
If you are having an operation or oral treatment, inform the person performing the treatment which medications you are taking.
This medication is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition seems the same as yours.
Never ever keep obsolete or undesirable medications. Take them to your local drug store which will dispose of them for you.
If metronidazole is causing a person severe stomach pain every time it is taken, is there another medication that can be prescribed that will help to heal colitis?