Metronidazole (200mg)

Metronidazole (200mg) — Uses and Benefits

Metronidazole is used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites such as amoebiasis and giardiasis.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Amoebic dysentery and liver abscess caused by amoeba
• Giardiasis (a parasitic intestinal infection)
• Bacterial vaginosis and other vaginal infections
• Dental infections and abscesses
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Infections after certain surgeries, as advised by the doctor
• Helicobacter pylori infection, as part of combination therapy

HOW IT WORKS

• It enters the bacterial or parasitic cell and damages its DNA
• This stops the organism from growing and multiplying
• This leads to death of the bacteria or parasite, clearing the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against viral infections like common cold or flu
• It is not used for infections caused by fungi
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain directly
• It should not be used for infections not diagnosed by a doctor

How to Use Metronidazole (200mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush unless advised
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless told otherwise
• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 24 to 48 hours after finishing the course
• Take doses at evenly spaced times as directed

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• Continue your regular schedule after the missed dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use if the tablet is discoloured or past its expiry date
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Metronidazole (200mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Metallic or bitter taste in mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach upset or discomfort
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Darkening of urine colour
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Seizures or fits
• Severe stomach pain
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (signs of liver problems)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Metronidazole (200mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription medicine in India and should only be used under a doctor's guidance.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to metronidazole or similar medicines
• Are in the first trimester of pregnancy, unless advised by your doctor
• Have a known blood disorder affecting white blood cells

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver disease
• Have a nervous system disorder or history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking blood thinners like warfarin
• Have a history of blood disorders

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Alcohol, including alcohol-containing medicines
• Warfarin and other blood-thinning medicines
• Lithium
• Phenytoin and phenobarbital
• Disulfiram

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

No, alcohol should be avoided during treatment and for a couple of days after finishing it, as it can cause severe nausea and flushing.

Will this medicine change the colour of my urine?

Yes, it can cause dark or reddish-brown urine in some people, which is harmless and goes away after stopping the medicine.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed to fully clear the infection and prevent resistance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.