Acos
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
Generic Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| acos 500 mg tablet | ৳ 55.17 | ৳ 165.50 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Acos 500 mg Tablet is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and parasitic infections. It belongs to the nitroimidazole class of drugs.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies by indication. For amoebiasis: 500-750 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. For trichomoniasis: 250 mg three times daily for 7 days or a single 2 g dose. For anaerobic infections: 500 mg three times daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required unless there is significant hepatic or renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
For severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min), a dosage reduction may be considered (e.g., 50% of the usual dose).
How to Take
Take Acos 500 mg Tablet orally, preferably with or after food, to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole is a prodrug that is activated in anaerobic environments. Its reduced form damages bacterial and protozoal DNA, leading to cell death. It inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by disrupting DNA and protein synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects typically seen within a few hours to a day, depending on the infection.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine (60-80%) and to a lesser extent in the feces (6-15%).
Half life
Approximately 6-12 hours in adults.
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by oxidation, to hydroxyl and other metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication)
- Active central nervous system disease
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia) when consumed concurrently or within 3 days of stopping metronidazole.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to lithium toxicity.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, leading to increased risk of bleeding.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life.
Disulfiram
Psychotic reactions have been reported; avoid concurrent use.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May reduce metronidazole's effectiveness by increasing its metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, ataxia, and mild disorientation. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category B for pregnancy, but contraindicated in the first trimester. Use with caution in second and third trimesters only if clearly needed. Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk; breastfeeding should be temporarily discontinued during therapy and for 12-24 hours after the last dose.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication)
- Active central nervous system disease
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia) when consumed concurrently or within 3 days of stopping metronidazole.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to lithium toxicity.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, leading to increased risk of bleeding.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life.
Disulfiram
Psychotic reactions have been reported; avoid concurrent use.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May reduce metronidazole's effectiveness by increasing its metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, ataxia, and mild disorientation. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category B for pregnancy, but contraindicated in the first trimester. Use with caution in second and third trimesters only if clearly needed. Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk; breastfeeding should be temporarily discontinued during therapy and for 12-24 hours after the last dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
3 years from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metronidazole has been extensively studied since its introduction. Ongoing trials focus on optimizing dosage regimens, combination therapies, and new formulations for specific indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (for prolonged therapy)
- Complete blood count (for prolonged therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize strict alcohol avoidance to patients.
- Monitor for neurological symptoms (e.g., numbness, tingling, seizures) during prolonged therapy.
- Adjust dose in severe hepatic impairment, as metronidazole is primarily metabolized in the liver.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid alcohol completely during treatment and for at least 3 days after stopping the medication.
- Inform your doctor about any unusual or severe side effects, especially numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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