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Pharmacokinetics
All obligate anaerobic bacteria (it is inactive against facultative anaerobic and aerobic bacteria)
Certain protozoan parasites (eg, Trichomonas vaginalis, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis [lamblia])
bacterial vaginosis. The drug has other clinical uses (see table ).
Some Clinical Uses of Metronidazole
Indication | Comments |
|---|---|
Infections due to obligate anaerobes (eg, intra-abdominal, pelvic, soft-tissue, periodontal, and odontogenic infections; lung abscess) | Often used with other antimicrobials |
Drug of choice | |
— | |
Central nervous system infections (meningitis, brain abscess) | — |
— | |
Septicemia | — |
Prophylaxis before intestinal surgery | — |
Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile–induced diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) | No longer recommended as a first-line drug |
Peptic ulcers due to Helicobacter pylori | For treatment and prevention of relapses Used with other drugs |
Topical or oral use |
Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
2021 sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines indicate that a single 2-g dose can be used at any stage of pregnancy to treat trichomoniasis.
Gastrointestinal disturbances
Central nervous system effects and peripheral neuropathy
More Information
The following is an English-language resource that may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines (2021)
