Metfil
Generic Name
Metronidazole
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| metfil 400 mg tablet | ৳ 1.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Metfil 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 like Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, and Trichomonas vaginalis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Amoebiasis: 400-800 mg three times daily for 5-10 days. Giardiasis: 2000 mg once daily for 3 days or 400 mg three times daily for 5 days. Trichomoniasis: 2000 mg as a single dose or 250 mg three times daily for 7 days. Anaerobic infections: 400 mg three times daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised due to potential age-related decline in hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment. For severe renal impairment or hemodialysis patients, dosage may need adjustment, typically a reduced dose or extended dosing interval.
How to Take
Metfil tablets should be swallowed whole with water. It is recommended to take the tablets with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole enters the organism and is reduced by electron transport proteins to form reactive nitro free radicals. These radicals damage DNA and other biomolecules, leading to cell death of the susceptible organisms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-2 hours of administration.
Excretion
Mainly renal (60-80% of the dose), with a small amount excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 8 hours (range 6-12 hours).
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration, bioavailability is approximately 80%. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via oxidation, to form hydroxyl and acid metabolites. The hydroxyl metabolite is active.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication).
- Active central nervous system (CNS) disease.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia). Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to lithium toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk. Monitor INR closely.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life by reducing its hepatic metabolism.
Phenobarbital
May increase metronidazole metabolism, leading to decreased efficacy.
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, as there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after acute ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B (some sources D). Generally avoided during the first trimester. Use in second and third trimesters only if clearly needed. Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk; consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding during treatment or use an alternative drug.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
- First trimester of pregnancy (relative contraindication).
- Active central nervous system (CNS) disease.
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Disulfiram-like reaction (nausea, vomiting, flushing, tachycardia). Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after.
Lithium
May increase serum lithium levels, leading to lithium toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.
Warfarin
Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk. Monitor INR closely.
Cimetidine
May prolong metronidazole half-life by reducing its hepatic metabolism.
Phenobarbital
May increase metronidazole metabolism, leading to decreased efficacy.
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, as there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after acute ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B (some sources D). Generally avoided during the first trimester. Use in second and third trimesters only if clearly needed. Metronidazole is excreted into breast milk; consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding during treatment or use an alternative drug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Patent Expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Metronidazole has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety profile for various bacterial and parasitic infections. Ongoing research explores its role in emerging antimicrobial resistance.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (for prolonged therapy)
- Complete blood count (especially white blood cells, for prolonged therapy)
- INR (if on warfarin)
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to avoid alcohol completely during and for at least 3 days after treatment due to disulfiram-like reactions.
- Caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment; dose reduction may be necessary.
- Monitor for neurological symptoms, especially with prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after discontinuation.
- Take with food or milk 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Metfil may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. If these occur, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene, especially during treatment for parasitic infections.
- Avoid consumption of raw or undercooked food to prevent re-infection.
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Global Brand Names
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