PROTOGYL 100MG

# METRONIDAZOLE 100 MG ## SHORT DESCRIPTION **Metronidazole 100 mg** is an antimicrobial medicine belonging to the **nitroimidazole** class. It is used to treat certain infections caused by susceptible **anaerobic bacteria and protozoa**. Depending on the formulation and indication, metronidazole may be prescribed for infections involving the gastrointestinal tract, reproductive system, oral cavity, skin, and other tissues. It is also used for certain protozoal infections such as **amoebiasis and giardiasis**. > **Important:** Metronidazole does not treat viral infections such as the common cold or influenza. The appropriate dose and duration depend on the type and severity of infection. --- ## KEY BENEFITS * Treats infections caused by susceptible **anaerobic bacteria**. * Effective against several susceptible **protozoal infections**. * Used in the treatment of **amoebiasis** and **giardiasis**. * May be used for certain **anaerobic dental and gastrointestinal infections**. * Can be prescribed for selected infections of the reproductive tract. * Available in different strengths and formulations for individualized treatment. --- ## USES / INDICATIONS Metronidazole may be prescribed for a range of susceptible infections, including: ### 1. Anaerobic Bacterial Infections It may be used for susceptible anaerobic infections involving: * Abdomen * Pelvis * Skin and soft tissues * Bones and joints * Dental/oral tissues * Other sites where anaerobic bacteria are involved ### 2. Amoebiasis Metronidazole is used to treat **intestinal and extraintestinal amoebiasis** caused by *Entamoeba histolytica*. ### 3. Giardiasis It may be prescribed for **giardiasis**, a protozoal infection of the gastrointestinal tract. ### 4. Trichomoniasis Metronidazole can be used to treat **trichomoniasis**, a sexually transmitted protozoal infection. Sexual partners may require evaluation and treatment to prevent reinfection. ### 5. Bacterial Vaginosis Metronidazole is commonly used for **bacterial vaginosis**, depending on the formulation and treatment regimen. ### 6. Other Indications Depending on local approvals, metronidazole may also be used for other susceptible infections or as part of specific combination treatment regimens. --- ## HOW IT WORKS Metronidazole enters susceptible anaerobic microorganisms and certain protozoa. Inside these organisms, the drug undergoes chemical reduction that produces active metabolites. These metabolites damage the organism's **DNA**, interfering with DNA synthesis and ultimately causing the microorganism to die. ### Simple Explanation **Metronidazole → enters susceptible microorganisms → damages their DNA → stops their growth/survival → helps clear the infection.** Metronidazole is particularly effective against **anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa**. --- ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION ### Important The **100 mg strength does not determine the appropriate treatment dose by itself**. Metronidazole dosing varies considerably depending on: * Type of infection * Severity of infection * Patient's age * Body weight * Kidney and liver function * Formulation being used * Local treatment guidelines Therefore, use the dose specifically prescribed by your healthcare professional. ### How to Take For oral tablets or liquid formulations: * Take exactly as prescribed. * Swallow tablets with water. * Take at evenly spaced times when instructed. * It may be taken with food if it causes stomach upset. * Complete the prescribed course even if symptoms improve early. ### Missed Dose Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. **Do not take two doses at once.** ### Completing Treatment Do not stop treatment early unless instructed by your healthcare professional. Stopping antimicrobial treatment prematurely may contribute to treatment failure or recurrence. --- ## SIDE EFFECTS ### Common Side Effects Possible side effects include: * Nausea * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Abdominal discomfort * Loss of appetite * Headache * Dizziness * Metallic taste * Dry mouth ### Changes in Taste A **metallic or unpleasant taste** is a relatively common effect of metronidazole and usually resolves after treatment. ### Dark Urine Metronidazole may occasionally cause **dark or reddish-brown urine**. This can be harmless, but report unusual symptoms to your healthcare professional if you are concerned. ### Serious Side Effects Seek medical attention if you develop: * Severe or persistent diarrhea * Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet * Seizures * Severe confusion * Problems with coordination * Severe allergic reaction * Significant liver problems * Severe skin reactions ### Peripheral Neuropathy Prolonged or repeated treatment can rarely cause **peripheral neuropathy**, characterized by numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness, particularly in the hands or feet. Report these symptoms promptly. --- ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS ### Alcohol Avoid **alcohol during metronidazole treatment and for at least 48 hours after the final dose**, unless your healthcare professional provides different advice. Combining alcohol with metronidazole may cause unpleasant reactions such as: * Nausea * Vomiting * Abdominal cramps * Flushing * Headache * Rapid heartbeat Also check other products for alcohol, including some liquid medicines. ### Liver Disease Tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Severe liver impairment can increase exposure to metronidazole and may require dose adjustment. ### Neurological Disorders Use caution if you have a history of: * Seizures * Peripheral neuropathy * Other neurological disorders Report new numbness, tingling, weakness, seizures, or coordination problems. ### Blood Disorders Tell your doctor if you have a history of blood disorders. Longer treatment courses may require appropriate blood monitoring. ### Pregnancy Tell your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Metronidazole may be used during pregnancy for certain infections when medically indicated, but treatment should be based on professional assessment. ### Breastfeeding Metronidazole can pass into breast milk. Discuss breastfeeding with your healthcare professional, particularly when high doses or prolonged treatment are being considered. ### Trichomoniasis If metronidazole is being used for trichomoniasis, sexual partners may also need treatment. Avoid sexual activity or follow your healthcare professional's recommendations until treatment is completed and reinfection has been addressed. --- ## DRUG INTERACTIONS ### Warfarin Metronidazole can significantly increase the effect of **warfarin**, increasing the risk of bleeding. Patients taking warfarin may require closer **INR monitoring and dose adjustment**. ### Lithium Metronidazole may increase lithium concentrations and potentially increase the risk of lithium toxicity. ### Disulfiram Concurrent use with **disulfiram** may cause serious neuropsychiatric reactions. ### Certain Antiepileptic Medicines Medicines such as **phenytoin or phenobarbital** can affect metronidazole levels and may require monitoring. ### Busulfan Metronidazole may increase exposure to busulfan and potentially increase toxicity. ### Alcohol-Containing Products Alcohol-containing products may potentially contribute to an unpleasant reaction during treatment. ### Other Medicines Always tell your healthcare professional about: * Prescription medicines * OTC medicines * Vitamins * Herbal supplements Do not start or stop medicines without checking for interactions. --- ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store Metronidazole 100 mg according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep tablets in their original packaging. * Protect from excessive heat and moisture. * Keep away from direct sunlight. * Keep out of reach and sight of children. * Keep the container tightly closed where applicable. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use tablets if the packaging is damaged or appears tampered with. --- ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription Medicine** Metronidazole is generally a **prescription antimicrobial medicine**, although regulatory status can vary depending on the country, formulation, and indication. Use it only for an appropriate diagnosed or suspected infection under professional medical guidance. --- ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe treatment, purchase **Metronidazole 100 mg** only from a licensed pharmacy or authorized medicine supplier. Before use, verify: * Product name and strength * Active ingredient * Manufacturer * Batch/lot number * Manufacturing and expiry dates * Packaging and seal integrity * Regulatory information where applicable Do not use the medicine if it is: * Expired * Damaged * Tampered with * Missing batch or expiry information * Unusual in appearance If you are uncertain about product authenticity, consult a licensed pharmacist or the relevant medicine regulatory authority. --- # FAQ – METRONIDAZOLE 100 MG ### 1. What is Metronidazole 100 mg used for? Metronidazole is used to treat certain **anaerobic bacterial and protozoal infections**, including selected cases of amoebiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, and other susceptible infections. ### 2. Is Metronidazole an antibiotic? Metronidazole is an **antimicrobial medicine** with antibacterial and antiprotozoal activity. It is particularly effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. ### 3. Does Metronidazole treat viral infections? No. Metronidazole does **not** treat viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, or most viral sore throats. ### 4. What is Metronidazole 100 mg used for in children? The pediatric dose depends on the child's **body weight, age, and type of infection**. Do not give a child metronidazole without appropriate medical advice. ### 5. Can Metronidazole treat diarrhea? It can treat diarrhea caused by certain infections, such as **giardiasis or amoebiasis**, when these infections are confirmed or appropriately suspected. It does not treat all causes of diarrhea. ### 6. Can Metronidazole treat amoebiasis? Yes. Metronidazole is commonly used to treat **amoebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica**. Additional treatment may sometimes be needed to eliminate organisms remaining in the intestine. ### 7. Can Metronidazole treat Giardia? Yes. Metronidazole is one of the medicines that may be used to treat **giardiasis**. ### 8. Can Metronidazole treat bacterial vaginosis? Yes. Metronidazole is commonly prescribed for **bacterial vaginosis**, using an appropriate oral or vaginal formulation. ### 9. Can Metronidazole treat sexually transmitted infections? Metronidazole is used to treat **trichomoniasis**, a sexually transmitted protozoal infection. Appropriate evaluation and treatment of sexual partners may be necessary. ### 10. Can I drink alcohol while taking Metronidazole? It is recommended to **avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 48 hours after the last dose** because of the possibility of an unpleasant reaction. ### 11. Does Metronidazole cause a metallic taste? Yes. A **metallic or unpleasant taste** is a relatively common side effect. ### 12. Can Metronidazole cause nausea? Yes. Nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort can occur. Taking the medicine with food may help reduce stomach upset when permitted by the product instructions. ### 13. Can Metronidazole cause dark urine? Yes. Metronidazole can sometimes cause dark or reddish-brown urine due to metabolites of the medicine. If accompanied by other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare professional. ### 14. Can Metronidazole cause nerve problems? Rarely, particularly with prolonged or repeated treatment, metronidazole can cause **peripheral neuropathy**. Report persistent numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness. ### 15. Can Metronidazole be taken with Warfarin? Metronidazole can significantly increase the effect of **warfarin** and raise bleeding risk. Medical supervision and closer INR monitoring may be necessary. ### 16. Can I take Metronidazole with food? Oral metronidazole can generally be taken with food if it causes stomach upset. Follow the specific instructions for your formulation. ### 17. What happens if I miss a dose? Take it when remembered unless it is nearly time for your next dose. **Do not double the next dose.** ### 18. Should I complete the Metronidazole course? Yes. Take it for the full duration prescribed, even if you feel better before completing treatment, unless your healthcare professional tells you to stop. ### 19. Can Metronidazole be used during pregnancy? It may be used for certain infections during pregnancy when medically indicated. Always discuss pregnancy with your healthcare professional before treatment. ### 20. Can Metronidazole be used while breastfeeding? Metronidazole passes into breast milk. Ask your healthcare professional about breastfeeding, particularly if a high dose or prolonged course is prescribed. ### 21. Does Metronidazole treat tooth infections? It can be used for certain **anaerobic dental infections**, usually when specifically prescribed and sometimes in combination with another antibiotic. ### 22. Is Metronidazole 100 mg a strong dose? The strength alone does not determine whether the dose is appropriate. Metronidazole dosing varies considerably depending on the infection, age, body weight, formulation, and treatment regimen. ### 23. Can I stop Metronidazole when my symptoms improve? Do not stop treatment early unless instructed by your healthcare professional. Premature discontinuation can result in treatment failure or recurrence. ### 24. Is Metronidazole 100 mg available without a prescription? Metronidazole is generally a **prescription medicine**, although regulations vary between countries and formulations. ### 25. What should I do if I develop numbness or tingling while taking Metronidazole? Contact your healthcare professional promptly. New or persistent numbness, tingling, burning sensations, weakness, seizures, or coordination problems may require assessment and potentially discontinuation of treatment. --- ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information about **Metronidazole 100 mg** is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is **not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment**. Metronidazole should be used only for an appropriate infection and at the dose and duration prescribed by a healthcare professional. The **100 mg strength does not represent a universal adult or pediatric dose**. Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least **48 hours after the final dose**, unless your healthcare professional gives different instructions. Patients taking warfarin or other interacting medicines should seek professional advice before using metronidazole. Seek medical attention for severe allergic reactions, seizures, severe neurological symptoms, persistent severe diarrhea, or other serious or unusual reactions. **Always read the product label/package insert and follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.**