Flagyl is an antibiotic. The medicine is dispensed as tablets (250mg and 500mg) for oral use.

Drug Uses

The key compound is metronidazole which has proved to be an effective treatment for amoebic or bacterial infections of the vagina, skin, stomach, respiratory tract, or joints. It may be used for other bacterial infections not mentioned here.

Dosage

Flagyl does not have to be taken with a meal, but to achieve the best absorption rate it is recommended that doses are taken before a meal. To minimize the chance of gastro irritations, take all doses before a meal.

Always adhere to a physician's instructions regarding dosage. Some patients may require adjusted doses which will be determined by a physician. Do not terminate treatment even if there is a considerable improvement in the infection. The entire course should be completed.

To achieve the best results from this drug, doses should be taken at regular intervals. This will ensure that the blood stream has a constant supply.

Potential Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS THAT WILL REQUIRE MEDICAL TREATMENT: Allergic reaction (indicated by swelling, rash, difficulty breathing), body aches, flu symptoms, chills, fever, sore throat, white patches in the mouth, bloody or watery diarrhea, burning or pain during urination, or tingling or numbness in the feet or hands.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS: mild nausea or diarrhea, stomach pain, unsteadiness, dizziness, headache, vaginal discharge or itching, dry mouth, runny or blocked nose, coughing, sneezing, or swollen tongue. These should disappear after a few days. If not, speak to your physician.

Can pregnant and breastfeeding mothers use this drug?

Flagyl should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy. This medication does taint breast milk. Discuss the risks of breastfeeding with a physician.

Important Information and Warnings

Because Flagyl might not react well with other medicines, the physician will need to know details of all supplements, remedies and medications that the patient is using.

Inform your physician if you suffer with Crohn's disease, liver disease, anemia, leucopenia, a nerve disorder, or convulsions, or if you have reacted badly to other antibiotics.

Elderly people may be sensitive to Flagyl because the medication is eliminated from the body via the kidneys. Many elderly people have weakened kidney functions.

It is advisable not to consume alcohol during treatment with Flagyl. When treatment has stopped, do not consume alcohol for a further 3 days. Alcohol can cause very nasty side effects like increased heart rate, redness beneath the skin, vomiting, tingling, or nausea.

How to store

Keep in a safe place where children or pets cannot access the medicine. The room temperature should be 15-300C or 59-860F. Do not store in a damp place like a bathroom.

VERY NB:

Only use this medicine to treat the medical condition for which it was prescribed. Never use it for any other reason. Never let other people use your medication, even if they have the same condition as you. Your physician has prescribed the medicine for you only. This guide may not include all information about this medicine. For further information speak to a physician or a pharmacist.