Metronidazole 400mg Tablets

Metronidazole 400mg Tablets Uses

Metronidazole 400mg is prescribed to:

• Treat bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract, reproductive system, and skin.
• Treat parasitic infections such as trichomoniasis, giardiasis, and amoebiasis.
• Manage bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Prevent infections following surgery, especially those related to the gastrointestinal or abdominal area.

How Does Metronidazole 400mg Tablet Work

Metronidazole works by entering bacterial cells and protozoa, where it disrupts their DNA, preventing them from replicating and causing further infection. It targets anaerobic bacteria (which thrive in low-oxygen environments) and protozoa, effectively eradicating the infection. Metronidazole 400mg is absorbed into the bloodstream and works systemically, targeting infections in various body systems.

How to Use Metronidazole 400mg Tablets

• Dosage: Take one Metronidazole 400mg tablet as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The usual dose for adults is 400mg taken 2–3 times per day, depending on the condition being treated.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
• Frequency: Follow the prescribed dosing schedule for optimal effectiveness. For treating infections, it is important to take the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better before finishing the medication.
• Duration: The treatment course generally lasts 5 to 7 days, but your doctor may adjust the duration based on the severity of the infection.

Important Notes

• Take Metronidazole 400mg tablet with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
• Do not stop taking Metronidazole early, as this can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Headache or dizziness
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Dark urine (a harmless side effect)

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Symptoms of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue
• Seizures or convulsions
• Persistent cough or difficulty breathing (signs of lung issues)

If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

Metronidazole 400mg tablet may interact with:

• Alcohol, which can cause a severe reaction, including nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
• Warfarin or other blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Lithium, a medication for bipolar disorder, as Metronidazole can increase lithium levels in the blood.
• Disulfiram, a drug used for alcohol dependence, which may increase the risk of side effects when taken with Metronidazole.
• Certain anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin) that may reduce the effectiveness of Metronidazole.

Inform your doctor about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you are using to avoid potential interactions.

Food Interactions

• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after completing Metronidazole, as it may cause a severe reaction.
• It is advisable to take Metronidazole 400mg with food to reduce stomach upset.

Metronidazole 400mg Tablets Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for:

• Individuals allergic to Metronidazole or any other components of the tablet.
• Patients with a history of blood disorders, such as leukopenia or thrombocytopenia.
• Pregnant women, especially during the first trimester, unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.
• Patients with severe liver disease or impaired liver function.

Precautions and Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, blood disorders, or neurological conditions.
• Use with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may affect the baby. Always consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Long-term use of Metronidazole can lead to superinfection (secondary infection), so regular monitoring may be needed during prolonged treatments.
• Metronidazole may cause dizziness or confusion in some individuals, so avoid activities that require full alertness, such as driving, until you know how the medication affects you.

Storage

• Store Metronidazole 400mg tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in their original container and out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets according to local disposal regulations.

Safety Information

• Use Metronidazole 400mg tablet only as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as chest pain, seizures, or signs of liver or lung problems.