Medicine Information

Filmet

Name: Filmet
Brand: Filmet
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Suspension200 mg/5 mlAnti-amoebic, Anti-protozoal, Anti-bacterial (Anaerobic)ATC: P01AB01

Generic Name

Metronidazole

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
filmet 200 mg suspension	৳ 35.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Filmet 200 mg Suspension is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections. It belongs to a group of medicines called nitroimidazole derivatives, which work by stopping the growth of certain bacteria and parasites.

Uses & Indications

Amoebiasis (intestinal and extra-intestinal)

Giardiasis

Trichomoniasis

Anaerobic bacterial infections (e.g., intra-abdominal infections, skin and soft tissue infections, bacterial vaginosis)

Helicobacter pylori eradication (as part of multi-drug regimen)

Dosage

Adults

Amoebiasis: 400-800 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. Giardiasis: 2 g once daily for 3 days or 250 mg three times daily for 5-7 days. Trichomoniasis: 2 g as a single dose or 250 mg three times daily for 7 days. Anaerobic infections: 500 mg three times daily.

Elderly

No specific dosage adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised due to potential for decreased hepatic function.

Renal_impairment

In severe renal impairment (CrCl < 10 ml/min), the dosage may need to be reduced, typically to half the usual dose.

How to Take

Take orally, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Shake the suspension well before use. Use a measuring spoon or cup to ensure accurate dosing.

Mechanism of Action

Metronidazole is a prodrug that is activated by reduction of its nitro group by susceptible anaerobic organisms. The reduced form produces cytotoxic compounds that damage bacterial and parasitic DNA, leading to inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis and cell death.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 1 hour for significant antimicrobial activity.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in urine (60-80% as parent drug and metabolites), with a small amount (6-15%) excreted in feces.

Half life

Approximately 8 hours (range 6-12 hours).

Absorption

Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver by hydroxylation and glucuronidation. The main metabolite, 2-hydroxymethyl metronidazole, has some antibacterial and anti-protozoal activity.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication due to limited safety data).

Drug Interactions

Alcohol

Disulfiram-like reaction (flushing, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, headache) if consumed during or within 3 days of therapy.

Lithium

May increase serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.

Warfarin

Potentiates anticoagulant effect, requiring close monitoring of INR and possible dose adjustment of warfarin.

Cimetidine

May decrease metronidazole clearance, increasing its plasma concentration.

Phenytoin/Phenobarbital

May increase metronidazole clearance, reducing its effectiveness.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light. 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 (though generally avoided in first trimester). Metronidazole crosses the placenta. Use in later trimesters only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks. It is excreted into breast milk; consider discontinuing breastfeeding or temporarily suspending the drug during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

60 ml suspension bottle100 ml suspension bottle

Shelf Life

24-36 months from manufacturing date, refer to packaging for exact date.

Availability

Available in pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)

Patent Status

Generic available, original patent expired

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Metronidazole has been extensively studied since its introduction in the 1960s. Numerous clinical trials support its efficacy against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, including trials for specific indications like C. difficile infection and H. pylori eradication.

Lab Monitoring

Monitor complete blood count (CBC) during prolonged therapy, especially for leukopenia.
Monitor INR for patients on warfarin.
Monitor lithium levels if co-administered.

Doctor Notes

Advise patients about the strict alcohol avoidance during and post-treatment.
Caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment, dosage adjustment may be needed.
Monitor for signs of neurological adverse effects, especially with prolonged therapy.

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.
Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
Shake the suspension well before each use.

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

Metronidazole may cause dizziness or confusion in some individuals. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery if they experience these symptoms.