Classification:
Metronidazole (me-troe-NI-da-zole) is used to treat bacterial or protozoal infections.
Form:
Tablet or vaginal cream
Usual Dosage:
The doses vary between adults and children and also depend on the type of infection being treated. The course of treatment is usually 7-10 days.
Side Effects to Report to your Doctor:
More common
- diarrhea
- dizziness or light–headedness
- headache
- loss of appetite
- nausea or vomiting
- stomach pain or cramps
Less common
- change in taste sensation
- dryness of mouth
- unpleasant or sharp metallic taste
- numbness, pain or tingling in extremities
Potential Drug Interactions:
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners)—Patients taking anticoagulants with metronidazole may have an increased chance of bleeding
- Disulfiram (e.g., Antabuse)—Patients taking disulfiram with Flagyl may have an increase in side effects affecting the central nervous system
- Lithium —Patients taking lithium with metronidazole may have an increased chance of experiencing lithium toxicity
For More Information:
For more information on Flagyl try About.com's Drug Finder.
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