Common Use

Flagyl is an antibiotic effective against anaerobic bacteria such as Peptostreptococcus, Clostridium sp., Bacteroides sp., Prevotella, Fusobacterium, Veillonella, and certain parasites including Trichomonas vaginalis (vaginitis), Giardia intestinalis (lambliosis of bowels and liver), and Entamoeba histolytica. This medication is commonly prescribed to treat conditions like bacterial peritonitis, liver abscesses, and abscesses of the ovaries and the Fallopian tubes.

Dosage and Directions

The dosage of Flagyl is determined by your physician based on your condition, disease, and age. It can be taken orally with or without food. In severe cases, Flagyl may be administered intravenously in a hospital setting. Extended-release tablets should be taken 1-2 hours before or after meals and must be swallowed whole without chewing, breaking, or crushing. Do not discontinue the medication even if symptoms improve unless advised by your doctor.

Precautions

• Regular blood count monitoring is required during prolonged treatment.
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Flagyl.
• Flagyl is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or have liver disease, stomach or intestinal conditions (e.g., Crohn's disease), blood cell disorders (e.g., anemia, leukopenia), epilepsy, or other nerve-related disorders.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Flagyl or its components.

Possible Side Effects

• Common side effects include nausea, metallic taste, anorexia, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and allergic reactions like rash or hives.
• Long-term use may cause leucopenia or brown-red discoloration of urine.
• Serious side effects include seizures and nerve damage leading to numbness or tingling in extremities. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Drug Interactions

• Flagyl is compatible with sulphanilamides and antibiotics.
• Avoid combining Flagyl with disulfiram, indirect-acting clotting inhibitors, or certain muscle relaxants.
• Flagyl is incompatible with alcoholic beverages and increases lithium levels in blood serum.
• Do not co-administer Flagyl with amprenavir for treating HIV.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of balance, numbness, tingling, or seizures.

Storage

Store Flagyl at room temperature between 59-77°F (15-25°C) away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Flagyl and does not cover all possible instructions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for personalized guidance. We are not responsible for any errors in the information provided or for consequences resulting from its use.