Flagyl (metronidazole)
Flagyl is an antibiotic having metronidazole as an active ingredient. This antibiotic is used by the body for fighting against the bacteria. This medication is primarily used for the treatment of infections related to that of the stomach, vagina, joints, respiratory tract, and skin. However, this antibiotic is definitely not used for the treatment of any yeast infection of the vagina.
Dosage
The dosage of Flagyl (metronidazole) can vary depending on the specific infection being treated, the severity of the infection, and individual factors. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions or the directions on the prescription label. The typical dosage recommendations for Flagyl are as follows:
For adults:
- Bacterial vaginosis: The usual dosage is a 500 mg oral tablet taken twice daily for 7 days.
- Trichomoniasis: The recommended dosage is a single 2-gram oral dose or 250 mg taken three times daily for 7 days.
- Amebiasis: The typical dose is 750 mg to 1 gram taken three times daily for 5 to 10 days.
- Giardiasis: The recommended dosage is 250 mg taken three times daily for 5 to 7 days.
- Other infections: The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific infection being treated. It is determined by the healthcare provider and should be followed carefully.
For children:
- The dosage for children will depend on their age, weight, and the specific infection being treated. It is determined by the healthcare provider and should be followed carefully.
Composition
Flagyl, also known with its active ingredient as metronidazole, is an oral formulation. Flagyl is the brand name of the medication, while metronidazole is the generic name. The inactive ingredients present in the oral formulation of this antibiotic include:
- Hydroxypropyl cellulose
- Polyethylene glycol
- FD & C Blue No. 2 Lake
- Titanium dioxide
- Hypromellose
- Cellulose
- Stearic acid
Uses
This medication which belongs to the class of antibiotics which are known as nitroimidazoles, is useful in the treatment of many different types of infections. The main function performed by Flagyl includes preventing the growth of protozoa & bacteria. And though Flagyl works in fighting the protozoal and bacterium, it offers no resistance when it comes to the viral infections such as common cold and flu. It should be noted that this drug must be allowed it due course of treatment and then stopped, as directed by the physician. Any misuse or unnecessary usage of this drug can reduce its efficiency.
Metronidazole can also be used along with some other anti-ulcer medications for treating some types of stomach ulcers.
Side-effects
There are several side effects associated with Flagyl antibiotic and the most prominent of them include:
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Blindness
- Back pain
- Blurred vision
- Convulsions
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Eye pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Irritability
- Hallucinations
- Drowsiness
- Decreased vision
- Changes in the pattern of speech
- Irritability
- Lack of co-ordination
- Seizures
- Stiff back and neck
- Slurred speech
- Trouble while speaking
- Vomiting
Some rare side effects of this medication are:
- Indigestion
- Cough
- Bloating
- Bleeding gums
- Chest pain
- Constipation
- Dark-coloured urine
- Loss of appetite
- Difficult and painful urination
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands
- Yellow skin and eyes
Contraindications
Patients suffering from any of the following conditions should refrain from having Flagyl:
- Allergic reaction to nitroimidazoles
- Any brain disorder
- Alcohol intoxication
- Decreased Neutrophils
- Severe liver disease
- Pain or tingling in the hands or feet
- Numbness
- Prolonged Q-T Interval on EKG
Flagyl and pregnancy
There has been no scientific proof that flagyl being harmful during pregnancy. Though, it cannot be declared safe either. It is necessary to see if the benefits derived are way more than the risk taken in case the patient is pregnant or plans on being pregnant.
Some frequently asked questions about Metronidazole
What is metronidazole?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic medication that is used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections. It belongs to the class of drugs known as nitroimidazoles.
What conditions can metronidazole treat?
Metronidazole is effective in treating conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection), amebiasis (intestinal infection caused by amoebas), giardiasis (intestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia), and certain types of infections caused by anaerobic bacteria.
How does metronidazole work?
Metronidazole works by entering the bacterial or parasitic cells and damaging their DNA, inhibiting their ability to grow and reproduce. This leads to the elimination of the infection.
How is metronidazole taken?
Metronidazole is available in various forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and topical creams or gels. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the specific infection being treated and the individual's medical condition. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions or the directions on the prescription label. Metronidazole is usually taken with food to minimize stomach upset.
Can metronidazole be used by children?
Metronidazole can be prescribed to children, and the dosage will be determined by their age, weight, and the specific infection being treated. The healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for children.
Can metronidazole interact with other medications?
Metronidazole may interact with certain medications, including certain blood thinners, disulfiram, and alcohol-containing products. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
What are the common side effects of metronidazole?
Common side effects of metronidazole may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, headache, and metallic taste in the mouth. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
Can metronidazole be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The use of metronidazole during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. The potential risks and benefits should be evaluated based on individual circumstances.
Can I consume alcohol while taking metronidazole?
It is important to avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after completing the treatment. Combining metronidazole with alcohol can cause severe nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing, and other unpleasant side effects.
How long does metronidazole stay in the system?
Metronidazole has an elimination half-life of about 8 hours. It typically takes around 5 half-lives for a medication to be cleared from the body. Therefore, it may take approximately 40 hours (about 1.7 days) for metronidazole to be eliminated from the system after the completion of the treatment.
