Metronidazole (CAS 443-48-1) Suppliers and Product Information

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic medication used particularly for anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. It is an antibiotic, amebicide, and antiprotozoal agent. Metronidazole is selectively absorbed by anaerobic bacteria and sensitive protozoa, where it is reduced to form unstable intermediates that bind to bacterial DNA and proteins, thereby inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and causing cell death.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is metronidazole used for?

A: Metronidazole is primarily used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites. It is commonly prescribed for bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, intestinal infections like giardiasis, and skin infections.

Q: What are the common side effects of metronidazole?

A: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, metallic taste in the mouth, and headache. More severe side effects are rare but can include neurological symptoms.

Q: How does metronidazole work?

A: Metronidazole works by entering bacterial cells and being reduced to form toxic compounds. These compounds then interact with bacterial DNA, causing strand breakage and inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death.