Metronidazole (200mg/5ml)

Metronidazole (200mg/5ml) — Uses and Benefits

Metronidazole oral liquid is used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Infections of the intestines caused by parasites, such as amoebiasis and giardiasis
• Certain bacterial infections of the stomach, gut, and pelvic region
• Infections of the mouth and gums caused by susceptible bacteria
• Skin and soft tissue infections caused by anaerobic bacteria
• Sometimes used before or after surgery to prevent infection

HOW IT WORKS

• It enters the cells of susceptible bacteria and parasites
• It damages their genetic material (DNA)
• This stops the organism from growing and multiplying, eventually killing it

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections such as cold, flu, or viral fever
• It is not effective against fungal infections
• It should not be used for infections not confirmed or suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain unrelated to infection

How to Use Metronidazole (200mg/5ml)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, using the measuring cup or oral syringe provided
• Shake the bottle well before each use
• Can be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Complete the full course even if symptoms improve, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not increase or reduce the dose on your own
• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 24 to 48 hours after finishing the course

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Discard any unused liquid after the period mentioned on the label once opened
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Metronidazole (200mg/5ml) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Mild stomach upset or discomfort
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Dark-coloured urine
• Dry mouth or furry tongue

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Seizures or fits
• Severe stomach pain
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Unusual confusion or difficulty coordinating movements

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

Metronidazole (200mg/5ml) — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole medicines
• Have a known history of severe blood disorders
• Are in the first trimester of pregnancy, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a nervous system disorder or history of seizures
• Have a blood disorder
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking any other medicines, including over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Lithium, used for mental health conditions
• Certain seizure medicines such as phenytoin and phenobarbital
• Alcohol-containing products, including some cough syrups
• Disulfiram, used for alcohol dependence

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine with alcohol?

No, alcohol should be avoided during treatment and for at least a day or two after finishing it, as it can cause severe nausea and flushing.

Will this medicine change the colour of urine?

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

Can children take this liquid form?

• Yes, this liquid form is often prescribed for children, but the dose must be decided by a doctor based on age and weight.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.