About metronidazole intravenous infusion bp
Nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal
Used for
- Treats serious infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria.
- Treats certain protozoal infections, including amoebiasis and giardiasis.
- May prevent infection around some operations.
Usual adult dose
Usually 500 mg intravenously every 8 hours; dose and duration depend on infection and clinical guidance.
Usual dose in children
For children over 8 weeks, usually 7.5 mg/kg intravenously every 8 hours; specialist guidance determines the maximum and duration.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal discomfort
- Metallic taste or sore mouth
- Headache or dizziness
- Infusion-site irritation
Important warnings
- Use only for infections where metronidazole is appropriate; unnecessary use promotes resistance.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 48 hours afterward.
- Seek urgent assessment for numbness, tingling, seizures, or severe confusion.
- Use cautiously with liver disease; dose adjustment or monitoring may be needed.
Pregnancy
Use when clinically needed; treatment choice depends on infection and pregnancy stage.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter milk. Discuss treatment with a clinician, especially for prolonged or repeated courses.
Interactions
- Warfarin and related anticoagulants: increased bleeding risk; monitoring may be needed.
- Disulfiram: risk of confusion or psychotic reactions.
- Lithium: blood levels may rise.
- Phenytoin or phenobarbital can alter metronidazole levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.