Metco
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| metco 400 mg tablet | ৳ 1.70 | ৳ 17.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metco 400 mg Tablet contains Metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections. It is effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Amoebiasis: 400 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. Giardiasis: 400 mg three times daily for 5 days. Trichomoniasis: 200 mg three times daily for 7 days or 2 gm as a single dose. Anaerobic infections: 400 mg two to three times daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for elderly patients, but caution is advised in those with hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe renal impairment, consider reducing the dose.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally, preferably with or after food, to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew or crush.
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole works by entering bacterial and protozoal cells, where it is reduced to an active form that disrupts DNA synthesis and damages DNA, leading to cell death. This action is specific to anaerobic organisms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours of administration, depending on the infection type.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine (60-80% as parent drug and metabolites), with a small portion excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 6 to 12 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by oxidation, to form hydroxylated and glucuronidated metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication).
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia) when consumed during or within 3 days of treatment.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Warfarin
Potentiates the anticoagulant effect, requiring dose adjustment and INR monitoring.
Disulfiram
Psychotic reactions have been reported.
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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; there is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Generally avoided in the first trimester. Use in later trimesters only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Lactation: Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk. Discontinue breastfeeding or interrupt treatment; consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication).
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia) when consumed during or within 3 days of treatment.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Warfarin
Potentiates the anticoagulant effect, requiring dose adjustment and INR monitoring.
Disulfiram
Psychotic reactions have been reported.
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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; there is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Generally avoided in the first trimester. Use in later trimesters only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Lactation: Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk. Discontinue breastfeeding or interrupt treatment; consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, consult packaging for exact date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (e.g., DGDA, FDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metronidazole has been extensively studied since its introduction in the 1960s, with numerous clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety for various bacterial and protozoal infections.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (for prolonged high-dose therapy or in patients with hepatic impairment)
- Complete blood count (if blood dyscrasias suspected or during prolonged therapy).
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize strict alcohol avoidance to patients due to the disulfiram-like reaction.
- Advise patients to report any neurological symptoms (e.g., numbness, tingling, seizures) immediately.
- Consider liver function tests and CBC for prolonged treatment courses.
- Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course to prevent resistance and recurrence.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after stopping the medication.
- If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
- This medicine may cause a metallic taste in your mouth; this is usually temporary.
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, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent re-infection, especially for parasitic infections.
- Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise advised.
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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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