Metronidazole is almost like the ultimate “stomach resetter .” For every little discomfort, purging after a suspicious roadside meal, or one small peppery suya, Boom!
But here’s the thing: You’ve probably been misusing this drug all along.
Metronidazole is not a magic drug for every stomach problem and when you take it without proper guidance, you could be doing more harm than good.
Let’s address this right away; come with me.
What Is Metronidazole?
Metronidazole is an antimicrobial medication that is used to fight infections that are caused by anaerobic bacteria(those bacteria that thrive without oxygen) and certain parasites.
Metronidazole is not your regular “antidiarrheal agent ” neither is it a cure for every case of diarrhoea.
It has its actual uses;
Usues of metronidazole
-For Anaerobic bacterial infections: It can be used for gum infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, brain abscess, tetanus, peritonitis, and others
-Bacterial vaginosis
-Skin and soft tissue infections: It can be used in cases like infected wounds and animal bites, but in this case with doxycycline
-Tissue nematode infections
-Protozoal infections: It can be used to fix infections like trichomoniasis, amoebiasis, and giardiasis.
-Helicobacter pylori infections: It can be used with other medications for peptic ulcer treatment
If your doctor didn’t prescribe it for your condition, leave the drug alone and stop self-medicating.
Apart from what to take it for, there’s a way to take it.
How to take metronidazole correctly
-Tablets: Better swallow whole with water during or after food (this is tk to reduce stomach upset).
-Suspension: Better to take one hour before food (on an empty stomach).
-Dosage: The dosage may vary depending on the infection being treated.
Don’t try to guess or ask random people
Follow your doctor’s prescription.
Metronidazole and alcohol combo
Avoid taking Metronidazole with alcohol.
Why is that?
Simple reason: It can trigger a disulfiram-like reaction (this is worse than a typical hangover effect )
You’re likely to experience:
-Severe nausea and vomiting
-Abdominal cramps
-Headache
-Flushed skin
-Rapid heartbeat
Even after you finish your medication, please wait for at least 48 hours before taking alcohol to avoid this reaction.
Some side effects to note
-Metallic taste in the mouth
-Dark or reddish-brown urine: you don’t have to don’t panic, it’s harmless
-Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort
-Dizziness and headache
-Tingling or numbness in hands and feet: if you notice this while on the medication, stop taking it immediately and let your doctor know about it.
Who should not take metronidazole?
-People with chronic alcohol dependence
-Pregnant women (first trimester, unless prescribed by a doctor.
-People with severe liver disease; may need dose adjustments
-People who are allergic to Metronidazole.
Not every purging needs Metronidazole.
Some cases of diarrhoea are caused by viral infections, food poisoning, or lactose intolerance, and Metronidazole won’t do anything in such cases.
Also remember, taking Metronidazole unnecessarily can lead to drug resistance.
What this means is that when you need it, it might not work for you
So, next time your stomach acts up, don’t rush to take Metronidazole.
Tag someone who needs to stop abusing this drug, let them learn.
By Pharm.Unique @celebritypharm
