Flagyl, also known as Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is commonly used in the treatment of anaerobic bacterial infections due to its high effectiveness in such cases. Anaerobic bacteria thrive in extreme conditions such as areas where there is scarce or no oxygen at all. Thus, Flagyl is usually prescribed to treat infections of the abdomen and pelvis. Flagyl can also be used in the treatment of bacterial peritonitis, and liver abscess formed due to amoebiasis, bacterial vaginitis and Clostridium difficle infections.
Other conditions Flagyl can be prescribed for include: acne rosacea; liver abscess and intestinal infections caused by Giardia lamblia (also known as Giardiasis); amoebic liver abscess; bacterial vaginosis; Trichomonas vaginitis; for carriers of trichomonas (both partners need to be treated). Also, while this is rare, Flagyl can be used to treat intestinal infections.
Flagyl can also be prescribed along with other antibiotics and H2 blockers to treat other conditions, such as an abscess of the liver, brain and pelvis where an anaerobic bacterial infection is suspected or infections caused by pylori (an important organism causing gastritis).
Flagyl antibiotic is not recommended for women that are in the first trimester of their pregnancy and are to be used with extreme caution and regular monitoring for the last 6 months of the pregnancy. It is also contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers as it is excreted in the milk and can be harmful to the infant. should be used with caution for the next six months. It contraindicated in nursing mothers as it is excreted in the milk which can serious illness in the infant. Do not take alcohol, warfarin and cimetidine while taking Flagyl as there are risks of interactions.
Flagyl can be bought in tablet form in doses of 250mg, 500mg as well as a 750mg dose available in capsules and extended release tablets forms.