Metronidazole (400mg)

Metronidazole (400mg) — Uses and Benefits

Metronidazole 400mg is used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Infections of the intestines caused by amoebiasis and giardiasis
• Bacterial infections of the abdomen, pelvis, and reproductive organs
• Dental infections and gum disease
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Infections after certain surgeries, as advised by your doctor

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 the 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 effective against fungal infections
• It should not be used for infections not confirmed or suspected to involve anaerobic bacteria or parasites
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain directly

How to Use Metronidazole (400mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 48 hours after the last dose, as it can cause severe reactions
• Take doses at evenly spaced times as advised

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

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

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink

Metronidazole (400mg) — 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 or constipation
• Darkening of urine (harmless but can be alarming)
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, and difficulty breathing
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet
• Seizures or fits
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Persistent vomiting or severe stomach pain
• Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin or eyes

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

Metronidazole (400mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

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

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of nerve problems or seizures
• Have any blood disorders
• Are taking any other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Blood thinners like warfarin
• Lithium
• Certain anti-seizure medicines like phenytoin
• Disulfiram (used for alcohol dependence)
• Alcohol-containing products, including some cough syrups

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

No, alcohol should be avoided during treatment and for at least 48 hours after stopping, as it can cause severe nausea, flushing, and vomiting.

Why does my urine look dark after taking this medicine?

This is a harmless effect of the medicine and usually goes away once the course is completed.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve early, to fully clear the infection.
• This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India. Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.