Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

METRONIDAZOLE - INJECTION

(meh-trow-NID-uh-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Flagyl, Metro

Uses

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat a variety of infections.

How To Use

This medication should be used as directed by your doctor. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

Side Effects

Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, change in taste sensation or dry mouth may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Unlikely but report: seizures, loss of consciousness, tingling of hands or feet. Very unlikely but report: unsteadiness, mood/mental changes, rash, itching, sore throat, fever, severe stomach pain, vomiting, vaginal irritation or pain, tenderness or swelling at injection site. This drug may cause urine to darken in color. This is not harmful. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies). Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a secondary infection (e.g., oral, bladder or vaginal yeast infection). Avoid alcoholic beverages while using this medication and for at least 3 days after finishing this medicine because severe stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, headache and flushing can occur. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. It should not be used during the first 3 months of pregnancy and used with caution during the last 6 months. This drug is excreted into breast milk and using it while breast-feeding is not recommended. Consult your doctor.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: phenobarbital, "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin). Do not take this medicine if you are currently taking disulfiram. Contact your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

Notes

Treatment of certain infections (trichomoniasis), may require that sexual partners be treated as well to avoid reinfection. During therapy, refrain from sexual intercourse or wear a condom. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

This medication must be stored properly. Review storage instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. Intravenous bags may need to be stored in the refrigerator. If so, let the bag warm to room temperature before using. Check expiration date before using. Store vial at room temperature away from sunlight.