FLAGYL (METRONIDAZOLE)

Flagyl Description

A prescription for Flagyl or generic Metronidazole can be given to treat numerous anaerobic bacterial infections including genital tract, blood, bones, lung, or heart. It may also be prescribed to be taken proactively to prevent infection following gynecological or abdominal surgery where anaerobic bacteria can be found. Anaerobic means that this bacteria does not require oxygen in order to thrive in places such as your bones, gut, or pelvic cavity. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Our own body is home to anaerobic bacteria as part of our natural flora. For the most part, they go about their business without raising any problems, but any trauma, foreign bodies, surgery, malignancy, shock, or a vascular disease can offer them a new or different environment and they begin growing in numbers that result in an infection.

Flagyl Works as a Bactericidal Drug to Kill the Bacteria

Once identified as a bacterial infection, take Flagyl as directed and for the entire time period recommended. Flagyl enters the bacterial or protozoal cells and interferes with their DNA. This action prevents the bacteria and protozoa from being able to form new genetic material in order to be able to grow and multiply. Instead, these micro-organisms die and the infection will begin to clear. Even though you are feeling better, you should take Flagyl for the treatment time indicated as the infection could restart with any remaining bacteria that have not been killed yet.

Conditions Treated by Flagyl

Those with weak immune systems, diabetes, or a low blood supply are considered high-risk for anaerobic infections. Sometimes, a doctor can discover an underlying medical problem from the clues given by an anaerobic infection; such as the realization that your lung abscess is actually a result of an underlying lung cancer. Intracranial infections can be difficult to treat because of the blood-brain barrier; this filtering system can block the passing of certain substances from your brain so some drugs have poor penetration. However, Flagyl has good intracranial penetration for treating infections such as a brain abscess.

Before Flagyl is Prescribed

Do not take Flagyl without telling your doctor that you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies you have to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. This will help your doctor determine if Flagyl is safe for you to take.

Flagyl Precautions and Proper Use

Certain medical test results may be affected while you are taking Flagyl so inform the lab personnel or doctor that requested the test. You should not change your dosage or stop taking Flagyl early without talking to your doctor. You should not consume any alcohol during treatment with Flagyl or for at least three days after you have completed treatment as you could experience fast heartbeats, tingly feeling or other unpleasant effects. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery until you know how Flagyl will affect you.

Possible Side Effects of Flagyl

• Heartburn
• Dizziness
• Stomach cramps