Drug reference
metronidazole
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Anti Parasitic (Anti Protozoal)
Mechanism of action
Inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by disrupting DNA and causing strand breakage; amebicidal, bactericidal, trichomonacidal
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Candidiasis
- Diarrhea
Boxed warnings
- Potenial for carcinogenicity Metronidazole has been shown to be carcinogenic in mice and rats Avoid unnecessary use Reserve for use in trichomoniasis and anaerobic bacterial infection
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles (although cautious desensitization has been applied) Pregnancy, 1st trimester in patients with trichomoniasis Use of disulfiram within past 2 weeks; use of alcohol during therapy or within 3 days of discontinuing therapy Consumptio…
Known interactions (9)
- ethanol + metronidazole Contraindicated
- mebendazole + metronidazole Major
- metronidazole + warfarin Major
- Albendazole + metronidazole Moderate
- carbamazepine + metronidazole Moderate
- dronabinol + metronidazole Moderate
- flibanserin + metronidazole Moderate
- Fluconazole + metronidazole Moderate
- Glimepiride + metronidazole Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is metronidazole?
metronidazole belongs to: Anti Parasitic.
How does metronidazole work?
Inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by disrupting DNA and causing strand breakage; amebicidal, bactericidal, trichomonacidal
What are the common side effects of metronidazole?
Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Appetite loss, Candidiasis, Diarrhea
Which drugs interact with metronidazole?
ethanol, mebendazole, warfarin, Albendazole, carbamazepine, dronabinol, flibanserin, Fluconazole, Glimepiride
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
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