Metronidazole

Metronidazole is indicated in the prophylaxis and treatment of infections in which anaerobic bacteria have been identified or are suspected to be the cause. Metronidazole is active against a wide range of pathogenic micro-organisms, notably species of Bacteroides, Fusobacteria, Clostridia, Eubacteria, anaerobic cocci and Gardnerella vaginalis.

It is also active against Tricholonas, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Balantidium coli. Metronidazole is indicated in adults and children for the following indications: 1. The prevention of post-operative infections due to anaerobic bacteria, particularly species of Bacteroides and anaerobic streptococci.

2. The treatment of septicaemia, bacteraemia, peritonitis, brain abscess, necrotising pneumonia, osteomyelitis, puerperal sepsis, pelvic abscess, pelvic cellulitis, and post-operative wound infections from which pathogenic anaerobes have been isolated.

3. Urogenital trichomoniasis in the female (trichomonal vaginitis) and in the male. The male consort of females suffering from urogenital trichomoniasis should be treated concurrently. 4. Bacterial vaginosis (also known as non-specific vaginitis, anaerobic vaginosis or Gardnerella vaginitis).

METRONIDAZOLE INJECTION, USP is indicated for: • Treatment of bacterial infections The treatment of serious anaerobic intra-abdominal infections due to susceptible anaerobic bacteria, such as Bacteroides fragilis (and other species of Bacteroides), Clostridium, Fusobacterium, Peptococcus, and Peptostreptococcus species.

Culture and susceptibility studies should be performed to determine the causative organisms and their susceptibility to metronidazole. Based on clinical judgment and anticipated bacteriological findings, therapy may be started while awaiting the results of these tests.

However, modifications of the treatment may be necessary once these results become available. In mixed aerobic and anaerobic infections, consideration should be given to the concomitant administration of an antibiotic appropriate for the treatment of the aerobic component of the infection (see 7 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, General).

Treatment of a small number of cases of brain and lung infections (some with abscesses) caused by anaerobic bacteria. • Prevention of bacterial infections The prevention of the incidence of post-operative infections in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Symptomatic Trichomoniasis. Metronidazole tablets are indicated for the treatment of T. vaginalis infection in females and males when the presence of the trichomonad has been confirmed by appropriate laboratory procedures (wet smears and/or cultures).

Asymptomatic Trichomoniasis. Metronidazole tablets are indicated in the treatment of asymptomatic T. vaginalis infection in females when the organism is associated with endocervicitis, cervicitis, or cervical erosion. Since there is evidence that presence of the trichomonad can interfere with accurate assessment of abnormal cytological smears, additional smears should be performed after eradication of the parasite.

Treatment of Asymptomatic Sexual Partners. T. vaginalis infection is a venereal disease. Therefore, asymptomatic sexual partners of treated patients should be treated simultaneously if the organism has been found to be present, in order to prevent reinfection of the partner.