Metronidazole

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 3/18/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Flagyl, MetroGel, MetroCream
  
• Generic Name: Metronidazole
  
• Uses: Treatment of bacterial and parasitic infections
  
• Drug Class: Nitroimidazole antibiotic
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Metronidazole is an antibiotic medication commonly used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles.

Metronidazole is prescribed to treat various infections caused by bacteria and parasites, including:

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
  
• Trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection)
  
• Amoebiasis (intestinal infection)
  
• Giardiasis (intestinal infection)
  
• Helicobacter pylori infection (associated with peptic ulcers and gastritis)
  
• Clostridium difficile infection (a bacterial infection causing diarrhea and colitis)
  
• Dental infections
  
• Skin and soft tissue infections
  
  

Metronidazole is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Metronidazole works by disrupting the DNA and cellular structure of bacteria and parasites, leading to their death.

It's important to note that metronidazole should not be used for viral or fungal infections.

Metronidazole is available in various forms, including oral tablets, capsules, extended-release tablets, and topical formulations (creams, gels). The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as your medical condition and response to the medication.

Complete the full course of metronidazole as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before the treatment is finished. Stopping the medication early can cause the infection to reoccur.

Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to take metronidazole properly.

The time it takes to experience symptom relief while taking metronidazole can vary depending on the type and location of the infection, its severity, and your overall health. Some individuals may notice improvement within a few days, while others may require a longer duration of treatment.

Continue taking metronidazole as directed by your healthcare provider and complete the full prescribed course to ensure effective treatment.

In addition to its primary uses in treating bacterial and parasitic infections, metronidazole may have off-label uses or be part of combination therapies for certain conditions. Off-label uses may include:

• Management of rosacea (a skin condition characterized by facial redness and acne-like eruptions)
  
• Treatment of refractory or recurrent Clostridium difficile infections
  
• Combination therapy for certain dental infections
  
  

Discuss any alternative uses of metronidazole with your healthcare provider.

Metronidazole is available in various dosage forms, including:

• Oral tablets: Available in strengths ranging from 250mg to 500mg.
  
• Oral capsules: Available in strengths ranging from 375mg to 500mg.
  
• Extended-release tablets: Available in strengths ranging from 750mg to 1000mg.
  
• Topical creams/gels: Available in various concentrations for skin and vaginal use.
  
  

Generic versions of metronidazole are available under various brand names.

Metronidazole is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this drug.