Malex
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
Hypothetical Pharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| malex 500 mg tablet | ৳ 4.10 | ৳ 24.60 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Malex 500 mg tablet contains Metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and parasitic infections. It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria and parasites.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose for most infections is 500 mg three times daily for 5-10 days, depending on the infection. For Trichomoniasis, a single dose of 2 g or 500 mg twice daily for 7 days. For Amoebiasis, 500-750 mg three times daily for 5-10 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly, but caution recommended due to potential for decreased hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min), dosage reduction or extended dosing interval may be considered.
How to Take
Take the 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 enters anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, where it is reduced to active metabolites that disrupt DNA synthesis and cause cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type, generally within hours to days.
Excretion
Mainly via urine (60-80%), with a small amount excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 8 hours (range 6-12 hours).
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (about 80% after oral administration). Peak plasma concentrations occur 1-2 hours after dosing.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic by hydroxylation and oxidation to active metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication for trichomoniasis).
- Concurrent use of disulfiram (within 2 weeks).
- Alcohol consumption during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, flushing). AVOID alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Lithium
Increased serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR closely.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life, increasing plasma concentrations.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May decrease metronidazole 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. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be useful if performed soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe after the first trimester. Use during the first trimester only if clearly needed. Excreted into breast milk; breastfeeding should be avoided or interrupted during treatment and for 12-24 hours after a single dose.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication for trichomoniasis).
- Concurrent use of disulfiram (within 2 weeks).
- Alcohol consumption during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, flushing). AVOID alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Lithium
Increased serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increased risk of bleeding. Monitor INR closely.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life, increasing plasma concentrations.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May decrease metronidazole 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. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be useful if performed soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe after the first trimester. Use during the first trimester only if clearly needed. Excreted into breast milk; breastfeeding should be avoided or interrupted during treatment and for 12-24 hours after a single dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating efficacy and safety across various indications for over 50 years.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential, especially with prolonged therapy.
- Liver function tests (LFTs) in patients with hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on strict alcohol avoidance.
- Monitor for neurological adverse effects, especially with prolonged treatment.
- Adjust dosage for severe hepatic impairment.
- Consider drug interactions, particularly with warfarin and lithium.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid alcohol completely during treatment and for at least 3 days after stopping.
- Inform your doctor about any unusual side effects or if your condition worsens.
- Take with food to minimize stomach upset.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how Malex 500 mg tablet affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid spicy and fatty foods if experiencing stomach upset.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.