Maxicon
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| maxicon 480 mg suspension | ৳ 110.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metronidazole is an antibiotic and anti-protozoal medication used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and parasitic infections, including amoebiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, and anaerobic bacterial infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Varies by indication. For amoebiasis: 400-800 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. For anaerobic infections: 500 mg every 8 hours. For trichomoniasis: 2 g as a single dose or 250 mg three times daily for 7 days.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be needed in patients with severe hepatic impairment; otherwise, adult dosage can generally be used. Monitor for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment typically required for mild-to-moderate renal impairment. For severe renal impairment or hemodialysis, dose reduction may be considered, or administer after dialysis.
How to Take
Maxicon suspension should be taken orally, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Shake the bottle well before each use. Use a calibrated measuring device for accurate dosing.
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole enters bacterial and protozoal cells and is reduced by specific enzymes to form highly reactive nitro radical anions. These radicals damage the DNA and other macromolecules, leading to cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects may be observed within hours to days depending on the infection.
Excretion
Mainly through renal excretion (60-80% of the dose) and to a lesser extent via fecal excretion (6-15%).
Half life
Approximately 6-12 hours in adults with normal renal and hepatic function.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after administration.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by oxidation and glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- History of disulfiram use within the last 2 weeks.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication, use only if essential).
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headache, flushing, palpitations, sweating). Avoid alcohol during and for at least 3 days after treatment.
Lithium
Increases plasma lithium levels, leading to potential lithium toxicity.
Disulfiram
Psychotic reactions when used concomitantly.
Phenobarbital/Phenytoin
May decrease metronidazole plasma concentrations, reducing efficacy.
Warfarin and other oral anticoagulants
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding. Monitor INR closely.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, ataxia, and seizures. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, focusing on managing severe reactions.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Metronidazole crosses the placental barrier. Avoid use during the first trimester unless the benefits outweigh the risks. For lactation, metronidazole is excreted into breast milk. Consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding or an alternative treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metronidazole has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials, demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various bacterial and protozoal infections. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Perform complete blood count (CBC) for patients receiving prolonged or high-dose therapy.
- Monitor serum lithium levels if co-administered with lithium.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize strict alcohol avoidance to patients.
- Educate patients about the metallic taste and dark urine, which are common and generally harmless.
- Monitor for neurological symptoms (e.g., paresthesia, seizures) during prolonged therapy, and discontinue if they occur.
- Consider alternative agents or reduced doses in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and resistance.
- Strictly avoid alcohol and alcohol-containing products during treatment and for at least 3 days after the last dose.
- Report any new or worsening neurological symptoms (e.g., numbness, tingling, weakness, seizures) to your doctor immediately.
- Take the medication with food to reduce stomach upset.
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 double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Maxicon (Metronidazole) may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautioned against driving or operating machinery if they experience these effects.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene to prevent re-infection, especially in parasitic infections.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Avoid excessive caffeine, which may exacerbate stomach upset.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.