Generic Flagyl – Metronidazole 200mg, 400mg

Flagyl (generic Metronidazole) is an antibiotic medication, that belongs to nitroimidazole class of medications.  It is intended for treating of various infections of the skin, pelvic cavity, gut areas, brain abscesses, pressure sores, leg ulcers, and other conditions.  This medication works by destroying the DNA synthesis in anaerobic bacteria and protozoa and preventing them from the further development.  This medication is widely used to prevent infections that can occur after surgical procedures. Flagyl has been proven to be very effective in preventing and treating the infections that can occur after gynecological surgery (e.g. childbed fever or sepsis after childbirth). Flagyl is also used in treating of bacterial Vaginosis and some others.

Flagyl is an oral medicine that is used to treat serious infections. At the beginning of the treatment the medication is used intravenously and then oral treatment follows.  The dosage depends on the severity of the infection. For example, for treating infection of brain abscesses a high dose of this medication is taken. The medicine should be taken according to the medical condition of the patient following the recommendations given by the medical professional.  Flagyl should be taken with water, with or without food. It’s necessary to complete the full course of treatment with this medication to get the benefits from the medication, so even if the significant improvements are observed continue your treatment.  If the therapy is not completed the possibility that the infection will return is high. When treating with this medication avoid consuming alcohol, otherwise such symptoms as headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and flushing might occur.

Before taking this medication inform your medical provider about your diseases you might have and other medical conditions. Make a list of the medications that you are taking right now including prescription and non-prescription drugs, so that your doctor will be able to decide if it’s safe for you to use Flagyl with these medications.

Let your healthcare provider know if you suffer from such conditions as decreased liver function, seizures, hepatic encephalopathy, granulomatous disease, anemia, leukopenia, or prophyrias.

For Amoebic abscess in the liver, the dose of Flagyl depends on the severity of the condition but in general it’s taken for 5-10 days.  In children this drug is used for treatment of Amoebiasis only. In this case, children are given 3 doses during 10 day period.

At the beginning of treatment of severe anaerobic infections Flagyl medication is taken intravenously and then orally every 6 hours for about 10 days.  For such conditions as infections of the lower respiratory tract, endocardium, bones, and joints the treatment can extend more than 10 days with the increased dosage. Patients who have a serious hepatic disease are recommended to take low doses of this medication in order to prevent accumulation of Metronidazole in the body.

Flagyl medication interacts with a number of other drugs. There is a risk of occurring various adverse reactions such as bleeding when Flagyl is used along with anticoagulants.

Antiepileptic drugs such as Phenobarbital can decrease the effectiveness of Flagyl.  Patients, who are taking this medication together with Ciclosporin, or Lithium, are recommended to check the blood levels and kidney function regularly. Those who are taking Metronidazole with Fluorouracil medications can experience a number of side-effects. Flagyl taken with Phenytoin increases blood levels. This medication is not recommended for people who take Disulfram, as these medications taken in combination tend to provoke psychotic symptoms such as paranoia and hallucinations.

Among the most typical side reactions of Flagyl is nausea, vomiting, stomachache, headache, epigastric discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, incontinence, an unpleasant taste or dryness in mouth, hives, or rash. It’s recommended for patients to consult with the medical professional if any of these symptoms stay for a long or tend to be severe. Flagyl usually doesn’t cause severe allergic reactions, but still can provoke such reactions as itching, rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.

In some very rare cases Flagyl if used for a long time can cause serious side reactions such as:  peripheral neuropathy, convulsive seizures, mood swings, pain while urinating, or vaginal yeast infection. Moreover, such negative effects as fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, immediately inform your medical provider.  But in majority of cases severe side effects when using Flagyl don’t occur.

Before starting the treatment with Flagyl pregnant women or nursing mothers consult with the medical professional regarding the use of this medication. Flagyl should be avoided in pregnant women during the first trimester. In general, recommended dosage for both women and men suffering from trichomoniasis is chosen according to the patient’s medical condition.

Women who are using any of the contraceptives don’t have a risk of an unwanted pregnancy if taking Metronidazole. But in order to avoid any possibility of unwanted pregnancy, it’s better to use an extra method of contraception while taking Flagyl medication. It’s recommended for women to consult with their gynaecologist or medical provider regarding this question.

Flagyl in tablet form should be stored below 25oC, protected away from light, heat and moisture. Keep away from children.