Metronidazole

Brand Name: Flagyl

Why is this medicine prescribed?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria. In the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it works by altering the bacteria in the intestines, which can help to decrease inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?
Metronidazole comes as a tablet to take by mouth, or as an intravenous (IV) injection.

Take metronidazole exactly as directed, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Do not change the dose or frequency prescribed by your doctor.

What special instructions should I follow?
Before taking this medication, talk to your doctor and pharmacist about:

You should not drink alcohol while taking this drug. Alcohol may cause an upset stomach, vomiting, stomach cramps, head­aches, sweating, and flushing (redness of the face).

Plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Metronidazole may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medicine cause?
Although side effects from metronidazole are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if these symptoms are severe or persist:

• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• dark or reddish-brown urine
• dryness of mouth; change in taste sensation; unpleasant metallic taste
• furry tongue

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following occur:
dizziness

• rash
• seizures
• numbness or tingling in hands and fee

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat, light and moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep away from light. Dispose properly of any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to metronidazole.