- Body system
- Anti-infectives
- Brand names
- Flagyl
What is Metronidazole used for?
- Anaerobic infections (intra-abdominal, pelvic)
- Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis
- C. difficile infection (when first-line drugs are not available)
- H. pylori (in combination)
- Amebiasis and giardiasis
How Metronidazole works
Nitroimidazole: damages the DNA of anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.
Common side effects
- Metallic taste
- Nausea
- Dark or reddish-brown urine (harmless)
- Headache
Report right away
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Seizures, confusion or unsteadiness
Nursing considerations for Metronidazole
- Monitor for neurologic symptoms with long courses.
- It increases the effect of warfarin: monitor the INR.
- Sexual partners are treated for trichomoniasis.
Patient teaching
- Avoid alcohol and products containing propylene glycol during treatment and for at least 3 days after: a disulfiram-like reaction can cause flushing, vomiting and a fast heartbeat.
- Finish the full course.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Nitroimidazoles (metronidazole) practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Metronidazole belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient taking metronidazole asks about drinking wine at a party. What is the correct response?
Show answer
Answer C: Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after Alcohol with metronidazole can cause a disulfiram-like reaction: flushing, vomiting, headache and tachycardia.
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Which change in urine color may occur with metronidazole?
Show answer
Answer B: Dark or reddish-brown Metronidazole can darken the urine; this is harmless.
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Which adverse effect should be reported with long courses of metronidazole?
Show answer
Answer B: Numbness and tingling of the feet Peripheral neuropathy can occur with prolonged use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Metronidazole used for?
Anaerobic infections (intra-abdominal, pelvic); Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis; C. difficile infection (when first-line drugs are not available); H. pylori (in combination).
What drug class is Metronidazole?
Metronidazole belongs to the class nitroimidazoles (metronidazole). Nitroimidazole: damages the DNA of anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.
What are the nursing considerations for Metronidazole?
Monitor for neurologic symptoms with long courses. It increases the effect of warfarin: monitor the INR.
What should patients report while taking Metronidazole?
numbness or tingling in hands or feet; seizures, confusion or unsteadiness.