Metronidazole
Metronidazole interrupts cellular metabolism by preferential reduction, capturing electrons that would be usually transferred to other molecules. This leads to a build up of cytotoxic intermediate metabolic compounds and free radicals, that result in DNA breakage and subsequent cell death.
| Property | Drug |
|---|---|
| Class | Nitroimidazole |
| Uses | Anaerobes and protozoa |
| Route of Administration | PO/IV |
| Dosing | 500mg BD |
| Absorption | 100% bioavailability |
| Distribution | Crosses BBB |
| Metabolism | Hepatic to active metabolites |
| Elimination | Renal of active metabolites |
| Metabolic | Significant rash, nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing |
| GIT | Nausea, vomiting, metallic taste |
| Immunological | Hypersensitivity reactions |
| Interactions | Disulfiram-like reaction with ETOH |
References
- Peck TE, Hill SA. Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. 4th Ed. Cambridge University Press. 2014.
- Lexicomp. Metronidazole (systemic): Drug information. In: UpToDate, Post, TW (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA, 2017.