EM
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| em 500 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
EM 500 mg Tablet contains Metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat a wide variety of infections caused by susceptible bacteria and parasites. It is effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites like Amoeba and Giardia.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Amoebiasis: 500-750 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. Giardiasis: 250 mg three times daily for 5-7 days or 2 g once daily for 3 days. Trichomoniasis: 250 mg three times daily for 7 days or 2 g single dose. Anaerobic infections: 500 mg every 8 hours.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised in patients with impaired liver function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment needed for severe renal failure for single dose. For multiple doses, caution is advised and dose reduction may be considered if accumulation occurs.
How to Take
Take EM 500 mg Tablet orally, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, do not chew or crush.
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole is converted to its active form in anaerobic conditions. This active form generates highly reactive nitro radicals that damage microbial DNA, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and leading to microbial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-3 hours for systemic effect.
Excretion
Mainly renal (60-80% as metabolites and unchanged drug), some fecal excretion (6-15%).
Half life
Approximately 8 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (approx. 80%). Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-3 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via oxidation and glucuronidation. Main metabolite is 2-hydroxymethylmetronidazole, which also has antibacterial activity.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication)
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (flushing, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, headache). Avoid alcohol during and for at least 3 days after treatment.
Lithium
May increase plasma lithium concentrations, leading to lithium toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.
Warfarin
Increases anticoagulant effect, leading to increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR closely.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life, increasing plasma levels.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May reduce metronidazole effectiveness by increasing its metabolism.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, ataxia, and mild disorientation. There is no specific antidote. Management is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage or activated charcoal if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Generally contraindicated in the first trimester. In later trimesters, use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Lactation: Metronidazole passes 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
36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metronidazole has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety profile for various infections over decades.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic monitoring of complete blood count (CBC) is recommended, especially for prolonged treatment.
- Liver function tests may be considered in patients with hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to avoid alcohol during and for at least 3 days after treatment due to disulfiram-like reaction.
- Monitor for signs of peripheral neuropathy in patients on prolonged therapy.
- Caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment; dose reduction may be necessary.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after stopping the medication.
- If you experience severe side effects or allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, 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
EM 500 mg Tablet may cause dizziness, confusion, or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection, especially for parasitic infections.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.