Description
Anaerobic bacteria cause infections in areas of the
body such as the gums, pelvic cavity, gut and bones because they do not
need oxygen to grow and multiply. Metronidazole works by killing
anaerobic bacteria in the body. Metronidazole can also be used to
prevent infection following gynaecological surgery and surgery on the
gut.
Before taking metronidazoleBefore taking metronidazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows: - If you suffer from liver or kidney problems
- If you have a disorder of the central nervous system or epilepsy
- If you suffer from a condition called porphyria (a blood disorder)
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
- If you have a dependency on alcohol
How to take metronidazole- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor or dentist.
- You must take metronidazole at regular intervals and complete the course.
- Metronidazole tablets should be taken with or just after food, with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
- Metronidazole oral solution should be taken an hour before food or on an empty stomach.
HOW TO USE METRONIDAZOLE SUPPOSITORIES - Wash your hands.
- If the suppository is too soft, it may be chilled in the refrigerator or under cold running water before unwrapping.
- Remove the wrapping and moisten the suppository with water.
- Lie on your left side (if you are right handed and reverse if left handed) with one leg bent and the other straight.
- Gently push the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first.
- The suppository should be inserted as far as possible, pushing the
end of the suppository sideways to ensure contact with the bowel.
- Lower your legs to a comfortable position to help you hold the suppository in place. Sit or lie for a few minutes.
- Wash your hands.
Getting the most from your treatment- Important: Do not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole and for 48 hours after finishing the course. Note: some cough and cold preparations contain alcohol.
- Metronidazole can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are
normal before driving, operating machinery or doing jobs that could be
dangerous if you were not fully alert.
Can metronidazole cause problems?Along with
their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects,
which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak
with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects
continue or become troublesome.
| Side-effects |
What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness, dizziness and unsteadiness |
Make
sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or
doing jobs that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. |
Important:
Occasionally allergic-type reactions could occur like nettle rash or
swelling of the mouth or throat. If this occurs contact your doctor at
once. Other side-effects include feeling or being sick, furred
tongue, unpleasant metallic taste, upset stomach, skin rashes,
headache, darkening of urine, muscle pain and itching. If you
experience these or any other worrying symptoms which you think may be
due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist. How to store metronidazole- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
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