Generic

Name
Metronidazole
(Flagyl)

Mechanism of
Action
Bactericidal,
Inhibits DNA
synthesis in specific
(obligate) anaerobes
Causing cell death
Antiprotozoal
trichomonacidal
Amebicidal
Biochemical
mechanism of action
is not known.

Indications

Contraindications

Acute infection with

susceptible anaerobic
bacteria.

Contraindicated with
hypersensitivity to
metronidazole.

Acute intestinal
amebiasis

Use cautiously with

CNS diseases, hepatic
disease, candidiasis
(moniliasis), blood
dyscrasias, lactation.

Amebic liver abscess.

Trichomoniasis.
Bacterial vaginosis.

Adverse
Reactions
CNS: headache,
dizziness, ataxia,
vertigo,
incoordination,
insomnia, seizures,
peripheral
neuropathy, fatigue.

Nursing
Responsibilities
Take the drug with
food if GI upset
occurs.
Do not drink alcohol
for 24-72 hours of
drug use; severe
reaction may occur.

GI: unpleasant
metallic taste,
anorexia, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea,
GI upset, cramps.

Your urine may be a

darker color than
usual.

GU: dysuria,
incontinence,
darkening of the
urine.

Apply the topical

preparation by
cleansing the area
and then rubbing a
thin film into the
affected area.

LOCAL:
thrombophlebitis
(IV); redness,
burning, dryness,
and skin irritation
(topical).

Can experience
drying of the mouth
with strange metallic
taste, nausea,
vomiting, and
diarrhea.
Report for severe GI
upset, dizziness,
unusual fatigue or
weakness, fever,
chills.