Description:

Metronidazole Tablets BP 400mg is a nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication. It is used to treat a wide range of infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. Common indications include amoebiasis (intestinal and extraintestinal), giardiasis, trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, anaerobic infections (e.g., intra-abdominal, pelvic, and dental infections), and as part of triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication in peptic ulcer disease. It works by disrupting the DNA of susceptible microorganisms, leading to cell death.

Prescription:

Prescription-only (Rx). Requires a doctor’s prescription. In Ghana, it is regulated and available through pharmacies.

Therapeutic Category:

Antibacterial / Antiprotozoal (nitroimidazole class)

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Each tablet contains: Metronidazole BP 400 mg. Excipients: Standard tablet fillers (e.g., starch, lactose, magnesium stearate, and film-coating agents if applicable; refer to label for full list).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: 400 mg strength tablets (standard adult dose; often in blister packs of 10 or 30 tablets).

Consume Type:

Oral (tablet; swallow whole with water, preferably with food to reduce stomach upset).

Directions/Usage: Adults:

• Amoebiasis: 400–800 mg three times daily for 5–10 days.
• Trichomoniasis: 400 mg twice daily for 7 days or 2 g single dose.
• Bacterial vaginosis: 400 mg twice daily for 7 days.
• Anaerobic infections: 400 mg every 8 hours.
• H. pylori eradication: 400 mg twice daily as part of triple therapy for 7–14 days.

Take with or after meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Complete the full course. Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after (risk of disulfiram-like reaction). Follow the doctor’s exact instructions.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, metallic taste in mouth
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite Rare but serious: Peripheral neuropathy (with prolonged use), seizures, severe allergic reactions, or liver problems.

Package Type:

Blister packs (commonly 10 or 30 tablets per pack; foil-aluminum blisters in carton box).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles.
• Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after (can cause severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, and headache).
• Caution in severe liver disease (dose reduction may be needed) and in patients with neurological disorders.
• Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed (Category B). Breastfeeding: Avoid or discontinue breastfeeding during treatment.
• Report severe side effects such as numbness/tingling in limbs, seizures, or severe diarrhoea promptly.
• Not effective against viral or fungal infections.

Product Substitutes: Other metronidazole 400mg tablets in Ghana: Flagyl (original Sanofi, if available), generic metronidazole from various importers, or brands like Metrogyl, Metro, or Tinidazole (for similar indications). Consult a doctor/pharmacist for suitable alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

M&G Pharmaceuticals Limited.

Country of Origin:

Ghana.