Flagyl is a branded drug for metronidazole, which is an oral synthetic antiprotozoal and anti-bacterial agent. Metronidazole in each tablet of Flagyl contains 250 to 500 mg of metronidazole. Some inactive ingredients in Flagyl include cellulose, FD&C Blue No. 2 Lake, hydroxypropyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, and stearic acid. Flagyl is effective in fighting and preventing bacterial infection and is used in various types of infection including in areas such as the abdomen, bones, joints, nervous system, respiratory tract, skin, vaginal, and intestinal infections.
Each Generic Flagyl tablet contains an active ingredient called metronidazole, a type of antibiotic component. This drug is often used in treating infections caused by many bacteria, protozoa, and other microorganisms. Metronidazole works inside the body such that its components enter into the bacterial and protozoan cells interfering their DNA or genetic material. Metronidazole acts out by damaging the DNA and preventing bacteria and protozoa from forming another DNA. This is the ultimate result of metronidazole that clears up the infection. Flagyl can kill a wide variety of bacteria that are known as anaerobic bacteria. It can also be used for medication in certain infections, leg ulcers, pressure sores, and other conditions which anaerobic bacteria can infect.
For elderly patients, the dosage of Generic Flagyl can be altered to monitor the serum levels that are necessary in adjusting the intake of metronidazole. Depending on the infection, Flagyl can be taken based on the following circumstances:
- In terms of treating trichomoniasis, the patient should take two grams of Flagyl that can be given as single dose or two separate doses for each gram on the same day. For a week-long treatment, 250 mg thrice a day is recommended for seven days.
- Pregnant patients should not take this drug during the first trimester as drug components can affect fetal development.
- The 750 mg dose should be taken orally for medication of acute intestinal amoebiasis or acute amebic dysentery for five to ten consecutive days.
- For liver abscess caused by amoeba, 500 mg or 750 mg of Flagyl should be consumed three times a day for five to ten days.
- For the treatment of serious anaerobic infections, Flagyl IV is commonly administered.
- Lastly, intake of metronidazole should not exceed 4 grams within one day.
Like all other antibiotics, generic Flagyl has side effects that are commonly minor in nature. Among the signs of allergic reaction from Flagyl include hives, breathing difficulty, swollen face, lips, tongue, or throat. Get immediate medical attention once you experience these signs. Moreover, you should also check with your doctor at once if you have any of the following serious side effects:
- Seizures or convulsions
- Fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, and other flu symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- White patches or sores inside the mouth or on the lips
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Diarrhea that results in watery or bloody stools
Less serious side effects include:
- Cough, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose
- Swollen or sore tongue
- Dry mouth or unpleasant metallic taste
- Vaginal itching or discharge
- Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea
- Headache, dizziness, loss of balance
If you are suspecting that you are pregnant or planning to conceive, you must inform your doctor during the treatment. You also have to tell your physician if you have allergies to certain drugs or if you have any of the following conditions:
- Liver disease
- Stomach or intestinal diseases like Crohn's disease
- Sickle cell disease such as anemia or leukopenia
- Seizure disorders like epilepsy
- Nerve disorders
Telling your doctor that you have one of the above conditions may lead him or her to adjust or do special examinations to ensure your safety while under Flagyl medication. In particular, breastfeeding and pregnant mothers have to take necessary precaution as the drug can pass unto the baby and potentially harm the infant.
What Should I Avoid While Taking Generic Flagyl?
- Do not drink or sip any alcohol while taking Flagyl or for at least three days after taking the drug. Otherwise, you may experience minor to serious side effects including fast heartbeat, warmth or redness in the skin, nausea, vomiting, or a tingly sensation.
- You should check the labels of food products to make sure there is zero alcohol content.
- There are also antibiotic medicine medicines that causes diarrhea. If you experience watery or blood in your stool, call your doctor right away. Never use another drug to stop diarrhea unless instructed by your physician.
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