Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 27, 2022.
Metronidazole has been shown to be carcinogenic in mice and rats. Unnecessary use of the drug should be avoided. Its use should be reserved only for conditions for which it is approved .
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Flagyl
- Flagyl ER
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Capsule
- Powder for Suspension
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Chemical Class: Nitroimidazole
Uses for metronidazole
Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial infections in different areas of the body. The extended-release tablets are used to treat women with vaginal infections (bacterial vaginosis).
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 available only with your doctor's prescription.
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 capsules and tablets in the pediatric population, except for the treatment of amebiasis. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of metronidazole extended-release tablets to treat bacterial vaginosis in teenage females, but should not be used before the start of menstruation.
Geriatric
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