Metronidazole Tablets 400mg

Metronidazole is a widely used and effective antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication that belongs to the nitroimidazole class of drugs. It is available in various forms, including oral tablets, and is sold under brand names such as Flagyl.

Metronidazole works by entering the cells of susceptible microorganisms (bacteria and parasites) and disrupting their DNA. In anaerobic (oxygen-lacking) environments, the drug is activated, which allows it to damage the organism's DNA, leading to a loss of its helical structure and strand breakage. This process effectively kills the bacteria or parasite and prevents the infection from spreading.

Metronidazole tablets are prescribed to treat a wide range of infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. These infections can occur in various parts of the body, including:

• Gastrointestinal infections: Such as those caused by Helicobacter pylori (a common cause of stomach ulcers), amebiasis, and giardiasis.

• Reproductive and Genital infections: Including trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis.

• Skin and soft tissue infections: Including infected leg ulcers and pressure sores.

• Dental infections: Such as gum disease and dental abscesses.

• Other infections: Including those of the blood, bone, joints, lungs, and central nervous system.

• Surgical prophylaxis: It is also used to prevent infections after certain surgical procedures, particularly in the abdomen.

The dosage and duration of treatment with metronidazole tablets vary depending on the specific infection being treated. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely and to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better. Stopping the medication early can lead to the infection returning and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. The tablets are typically taken orally with water, and in some cases, with food to help minimize stomach upset.

Common side effects of metronidazole are often related to the gastrointestinal system and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea or constipation

• A distinctive, unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth

• Headache