Metronidazole

Metronidazole

Metronidazole tablets are an antibiotic used to treat bacterial vaginosis. Symptoms, if any, can begin to clear within a few days.

For recurring BV that does not resolve by taking measures to prevent changes in the balance of the vagina, you may need a longer course of antibiotics.

When to Use Metronidazole Tablets?

Metronidazole tablets are one of the most popular treatments for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Your doctor will usually prescribe them when you have an infection.

In most cases, you'll follow the traditional treatment regimen, which is a set dose of tablets for between five and seven days.

However, in some cases, your doctor might recommend a high single-dose option, although this is rare due to the potential side effects.

Age Restrictions for Metronidazole Tablets

Metronidazole tablets for bacterial vaginosis are generally prescribed for women aged between 18 and 65. However, a GP or registered pharmacist may recommend them for people outside these age ranges, depending on individual circumstances.

How to Use Metronidazole for Bacterial Vaginosis?

The standard dose of Metronidazole tablets is 400mg twice a day, for up to seven days. When using the medication, please follow these instructions:

• Take with Food: Take the tablets immediately after a meal with a glass of water to help prevent side effects. Never break them down or crush them - always swallow the tablets whole.
• Space Each Dose Evenly: If you're on the standard twice-daily treatment course, try to space them out every 12 hours.
• Complete Your Treatment: Even if you begin to feel better, finish the entire course to prevent the infection from returning.
• Avoid Drinking Alcohol: Never drink alcohol while you're using alcohol. You should wait at least 48 hours after taking your last tablet before drinking.

When to Avoid Using Metronidazole Tablets to Treat Bacterial Vaginosis?

While Metronidazole is a highly effective treatment for bacterial infections, it's not suitable for everyone. If any of the following apply, you should avoid using it and seek alternative antibiotics:

• Allergies: People with an allergy or sensitivity to any ingredient in Metronidazole should avoid using it, as it can cause a reaction.
• Disulfiram Use: If you're currently taking or have recently used disulfiram (Antabuse to treat alcoholism) within the last fortnight, avoid Metronidazole, as it can cause a reaction.
• Cockayne Syndrome: Metronidazole can cause liver failure in people with Cockayne Syndrome.

Precautions for Metronidazole Tablets

If you have any of the following conditions, your GP or a registered pharmacist may recommend a lower dose or alternative for treating bacterial vaginosis:

• Liver Problems: Liver disease can slow your body's ability to remove Metronidazole, leading to toxicity.
• Kidney Disease: Individuals with kidney problems may need a different dosing schedule.
• Nervous System: If you have a Central Nervous System (CNS) disorder, using Metronidazole can increase your symptoms. You should also speak to your doctor if you're taking medications that treat epilepsy.
• Blood Disorders: A history of blood disorders means you'll require careful monitoring when using Metronidazole.
• Yeast Infection: In some cases, taking antibiotics such as Metronidazole for vaginal candidiasis can worsen symptoms.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Please let your doctor or pharmacist know if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, as you may need the gel formulation rather than the tablets.

Ingredients of Metronidazole Tablets

Metronidazole (400 mg) is the active ingredient. The synthetic nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent is used to treat anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.

Inactive Ingredients Include:

• Binders/Fillers: Maise starch, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose and pregelatinised starch.
• Lubricants: Magnesium stearate, stearic acid, colloidal Anhydrous Silica
• Film-Coating Agents: Hypromellose (HPMC), polyethene glycol, titanium dioxide (E171).
• Colourants