Generic name:

metronidazole
Brand name:
Flagyl
Preparations:
PO 7.5 mg/kg q6hr (not to exceed 4g/day)
CLASSIFICATION: Anti-infectives,
Anti-protozoals
ACTION: 
• Disrupts DNA and protein synthesis in susceptible organisms
• Bactericidal, or amebicidal action
INDICATION / USES:
•Amebicide in the management of amebic dysentery
COMMON ADVERSE EFFECTS: 
•CNS: seizures, dizziness, headache
• GI: abdominal pain, anorexia, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, furry tongue, glossitis,
unpleasant taste, vomiting
• Hematologic: leukopenia
• Skin: rashes, urticaria
CONTRA-INDICATIONS:
• hypersensitivity
NURSING CONSIDERATIONS:
• Administer with food or milk to minimize GI irritation. Tablets may be crushed for
patients with difficulty swallowing.
• Instruct patient to take medication exactly as directed evenly spaced times between
dose, even if feeling better. Do not skip doses or double up on missed doses. If a dose
is missed, take as soon as remembered if not almost time for next dose.
•May cause dizziness or light-headedness. Caution patient or other activities requiring
alertness until response to medication is known.
• Inform patient that medication may cause an unpleasant metallic taste.
• Inform patient that medication may cause urine to turn dark.
• Advise patient to consult health care professional if no improvement in a few days or
if signs and symptoms of superinfection (black furry overgrowth on tongue; loose or
foul-smelling stools develop).