Pharmacology
Summary
Metronidazole has an extensive reach against anaerobes and certain protozoal infections. Its bactericidal mechanism is achieved through the formation of toxic free radical metabolites that disrupt bacterial DNA.
Metronidazole is an effective treatment for a multitude of different infections, including amoebic dysentery and liver abscess caused by the protozoal infection Entamoeba histolytica. It also treats Giardia, which typically manifests as acute watery diarrhea in international travelers. Trichomonas vaginitis, which can lead to greenish discharge and a strawberry cervix, and bacterial vaginosis (caused by Gardnerella), represented by a fishy odor, can both be treated by metronidazole. The antibiotic is also useful in treating infections caused by Helicobacter pylori and C. difficile, particularly in the instance of pseudomembranous colitis and diarrhea. Alcohol consumption during metronidazole therapy can cause a disulfiram-like reaction, which involves symptoms such as flushing, tachycardia, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
Lesson Outline
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FAQs
Metronidazole provides effective coverage for numerous polymicrobial anaerobic infections. These include intra-abdominal infections and infections caused by anaerobic bacteria such as Bacteroides, Prevotella, Fusobacterium, and Clostridioides.
Metronidazole acts as a bactericidal medication. It generates free radical metabolites that disrupt the DNA of bacteria, leading to their death.
Metronidazole is effective against certain protozoal infections. This include infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica and the parasite Giardia. It is also used to treat vaginitis and cervicitis caused by Trichomonas. As a standard medical practice, both the patient and their partner should be treated for Trichomonas.
Concurrent ingestion of alcohol and metronidazole can result in a disulfiram-like reaction. This could lead to symptoms such as flushing, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), palpitations, nausea, and vomiting.
