TRICHOGYL 500 MG TABLETS (METRONIDAZOLE) – 12 TABLETS

Therapeutic Category: Antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent (nitroimidazole).

Active Ingredient: Each tablet contains metronidazole 500 mg.

Product Overview

Trichogyl contains metronidazole, a nitroimidazole antimicrobial medicine used to treat certain infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. It works by entering susceptible microorganisms and damaging their DNA, which prevents them from growing and surviving.

It is used for specific infections such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, amoebiasis, giardiasis, and certain anaerobic bacterial infections, depending on the diagnosis and prescribed treatment regimen.

Indications and Uses

Metronidazole may be prescribed for:

• Trichomoniasis: Treatment of infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis.
• Amoebiasis: Treatment of intestinal or extraintestinal infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica.
• Giardiasis: Treatment of intestinal infection caused by Giardia species.
• Bacterial vaginosis: Treatment of symptomatic bacterial vaginosis.
• Anaerobic bacterial infections: Treatment of susceptible infections, including certain intra-abdominal, pelvic, dental, and other infections.
• Combination therapy: May be used with other medicines in selected treatment regimens, such as certain H. pylori eradication protocols.

►Important: Metronidazole does not treat viral infections such as colds or influenza, and it is not effective against every type of bacterial infection.

Dosage and Administration

• The dose and duration depend on the type and severity of infection, the patient's age, weight, liver function, and clinical condition.
• Take the tablets exactly as prescribed by the treating physician.
• Swallow with water, preferably during or after a meal if stomach discomfort occurs.
• Complete the prescribed course, even if symptoms improve earlier.
• Do not use leftover tablets or share this medicine with others.

Important: The 500 mg strength does not mean that every infection requires the same dose or treatment duration. The 12-tablet pack may not provide a complete treatment course for every indication.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Abdominal discomfort.
• Metallic or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Loss of appetite.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Darkening of urine, which may occur during treatment.

Less common but potentially serious reactions include:

• Allergic reactions, including swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Numbness, tingling, or peripheral neuropathy.
• Seizures, confusion, or other neurological symptoms.
• Liver problems or jaundice.
• Severe skin reactions or blood disorders.

Seek medical attention if serious or unusual symptoms occur.

Warnings and Precautions

Consult a physician before using Trichogyl if you:

• Have liver disease or impaired liver function.
• Have a history of seizures or neurological disorders.
• Have a blood disorder or a history of abnormal blood counts.
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Are taking long-term treatment or have previously experienced an adverse reaction to metronidazole.

Alcohol warning: Avoid alcoholic beverages and products containing alcohol or propylene glycol during treatment. Follow the product leaflet regarding when it is safe to resume alcohol consumption after treatment; recommendations vary between product labels, with some advising 48 hours and some advising 72 hours.

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
• Concurrent use with disulfiram or recent disulfiram exposure within the preceding two weeks, according to prescribing information.
• Certain pregnancy-related restrictions apply to specific indications and treatment regimens; medical assessment is essential.

Drug Interactions

Metronidazole may interact with:

• Warfarin and other oral anticoagulants: May increase anticoagulant effects and bleeding risk.
• Lithium: May increase lithium concentrations.
• Disulfiram: May cause serious neuropsychiatric reactions.
• Busulfan: May increase busulfan exposure and toxicity.
• Certain medicines affecting liver enzymes: May alter metronidazole concentrations or treatment effects.

Inform your physician about all medicines and supplements you are taking before starting treatment.

Storage Conditions

• Store according to the manufacturer's instructions on the original package.
• Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

References

1. U.S. National Library of Medicine – DailyMed: Metronidazole tablet prescribing information. View prescribing information.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Metronidazole tablet labeling. View FDA label.
3. NHS: About metronidazole. View NHS information.
4. NHS: Side effects of metronidazole. View side effects.
5. electronic Medicines Compendium (UK): Metronidazole 500 mg film-coated tablets – Patient Information Leaflet. View patient leaflet.

Patient Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Trichogyl (metronidazole) is a prescription antimicrobial medicine and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The appropriate dose and duration must be determined according to the diagnosed infection and the patient's individual condition. Do not self-medicate or discontinue treatment without consulting your physician.