AMRIZOLE 500 MG (METRONIDAZOLE) – 20 TABLETS

Active Ingredient: Metronidazole 500 mg
Pharmaceutical Form: Oral tablets
Pack Size: 20 tablets
Therapeutic Class: Nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent (Antibacterial and Antiprotozoal).

Product Overview

Amrizole 500 mg contains metronidazole, a nitroimidazole antimicrobial medication used to treat infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa.

Metronidazole works by entering susceptible microorganisms and interfering with their DNA, thereby inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and leading to microbial cell death.

Indications and Uses

Amrizole 500 mg may be prescribed for the treatment of:

• Anaerobic bacterial infections: Including susceptible infections of the abdomen, pelvis, and other body tissues.
• Bacterial vaginosis: Treatment of bacterial overgrowth associated with disruption of the normal vaginal flora.
• Trichomoniasis: Treatment of infections caused by Trichomonas vaginalis.
• Amoebiasis: Treatment of intestinal and extraintestinal infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica.
• Giardiasis: Treatment of intestinal infections caused by Giardia duodenalis.
• Certain dental infections: When anaerobic bacteria are involved and metronidazole is clinically indicated.

►Important: Metronidazole does not treat viral infections such as colds or influenza, and it is not effective against all types of bacteria.

Mechanism of Action

Metronidazole is converted into active compounds inside susceptible anaerobic microorganisms and protozoa. These compounds interact with microbial DNA, causing DNA damage and inhibiting DNA synthesis.

This ultimately leads to the death of susceptible microorganisms.

Dosage and Administration

• The dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection.
• For certain adult infections, commonly prescribed regimens include 500 mg two or three times daily, depending on the indication.
• For bacterial vaginosis in women, the CDC-recommended oral regimen is 500 mg twice daily for 7 days.
• For trichomoniasis in women, the CDC also recommends 500 mg twice daily for 7 days.
• For amoebiasis, giardiasis, and other infections, different treatment schedules are required.

Administration instructions:

• Take the tablets orally with water.
• Taking metronidazole after food may help reduce stomach discomfort.
• Follow the prescribed treatment schedule and complete the course as directed.
• Do not double the dose if a dose is missed.

The above regimens are examples for specific infections, not a universal dosing recommendation for every patient.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea or abdominal discomfort.
• Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Loss of appetite.
• Headache.
• Dry mouth.
• Darkening of urine (usually harmless).

Less common but potentially serious reactions include:

• Allergic reactions, including rash and swelling.
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hands and feet.
• Seizures or other neurological symptoms.
• Confusion or problems with coordination.

Seek medical attention if serious or unusual symptoms occur.

Contraindications and Precautions

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
• Recent use of disulfiram (within the previous two weeks).

Precautions:

• Patients with severe liver disease may require dosage adjustment.
• Use cautiously in patients with a history of neurological disorders or blood disorders.
• Patients taking warfarin or other oral anticoagulants require careful monitoring because metronidazole may increase their anticoagulant effects.
• Inform the doctor about all medications and supplements being taken.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional to assess the benefits and potential risks.

Important Drug and Lifestyle Interactions

• Alcohol: Follow the product labeling and avoid alcoholic beverages and products containing propylene glycol during treatment and for at least 3 days after completing therapy.
• Disulfiram: Concurrent use may cause serious psychiatric reactions.
• Warfarin: May increase anticoagulant activity and the risk of bleeding.
• Lithium: May increase lithium concentrations and the risk of toxicity.

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Protect from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

Patient Counseling Points

• Use Amrizole only when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Do not use it to treat viral infections such as influenza or the common cold.
• Complete the prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier.
• Avoid self-medication or sharing the medication with others.
• For sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis, sexual partners may also require evaluation and treatment to prevent reinfection.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen after treatment.

References

1. U.S. National Library of Medicine – MedlinePlus: Metronidazole Drug Information. Read reference.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Metronidazole Tablets – Prescribing Information. Read prescribing information.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment Guidelines. Read guidelines.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Trichomoniasis Treatment Guidelines. Read guidelines.

Patient Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using this medication. The appropriate dosage and duration of treatment must be determined according to the patient's condition, medical history, and clinical assessment.