Metronidazole (Intravenous)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 26, 2021.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Flagyl I.V.
• Flagyl I.V. RTU

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic

Chemical Class: Nitroimidazole

Uses for metronidazole

Metronidazole injection is used to treat serious bacterial infections in different areas of the body. It is also used to prevent infections in the bowels before and after surgery for some patients.

Metronidazole belongs to the class of medicines known as antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, metronidazole will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.

Metronidazole is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.

Before using metronidazole

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For metronidazole, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of metronidazole injection in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of metronidazole injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have unwanted effects and age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving metronidazole injection.