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metronidazole
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Metronidazole is an antibiotic that acts on anaerobes. The active form of the drug is a reduced derivative; it appears that this is produced intracellularly only at low redox values - i.e. only in anaerobes. It acts by inducing strand breakages in the DNA.
Cautions:
- DISULFIRAM-LIKE REACTION WITH ALCOHOL
- hepatic impairment
- pregnancy and breast feeding
Contra-indications:
- porphyria
Side-effects:
- nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal disturbances
- drowsiness
- headaches
- rashes
- leucopenia
- darkens urine
- peripheral neuropathy with prolonged treatment
- dizziness
- ataxia
- transient epileptiform seizures with high doses
Routes of administration:
- Oral: - tablets - suspension
- per rectum
- i.v. infusion
The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.
Last reviewed 01/2018
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