DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Metronidazole

March 21, 2017

Butylparaben, Cetyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Stearyl Alcohol, Water Topical emulsion, Metronidazole Topical gel

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. This medicine is used to treat rosacea, also known as adult acne. It reduces redness and inflammation and the number of pimples.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • other chronic illness

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after application. Wash the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat dry. Apply a small amount of this medicine to the affected area and rub gently. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think you are better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin does not improve in 3 weeks. Further healing can take up to 12 weeks.

You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water based products and apply lightly. You may also be able to use sunscreens or moisturizers, ask your doctor or health care professional. Wait at least 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any of these additional products.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • if a new skin condition or rash develops or if rosacea gets worse

  • loss of feeling or tingling of treated area

  • nausea

Side effects recorded include (report to your doctor or health care professional if these continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, itching, or redness

  • dry skin

  • watering eyes

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Oral capsule

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial and protozoal infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • disease of the nervous system

  • fungal or yeast infection

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • liver disease

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • amprenavir oral solution

  • cisapride

  • disulfiram

  • dofetilide

  • dronedarone

  • paclitaxel injection

  • pimozide

  • ritonavir oral solution

  • sertraline oral solution

  • sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim injection

  • thioridazine

  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • birth control pills

  • cimetidine

  • lithium

  • other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine and for three days afterward. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion, clumsiness

  • difficulty speaking

  • discolored or sore mouth

  • dizziness

  • fever, infection

  • numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the hands or feet

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • seizures

  • unusually weak or tired

  • vaginal irritation, dryness, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • irritability

  • metallic taste

  • nausea

  • stomach pain or cramps

  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial and protozoal infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • disease of the nervous system

  • fungal or yeast infection

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • liver disease

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • amprenavir oral solution

  • cisapride

  • disulfiram

  • dofetilide

  • dronedarone

  • paclitaxel injection

  • pimozide

  • ritonavir oral solution

  • sertraline oral solution

  • sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim injection

  • thioridazine

  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • birth control pills

  • cimetidine

  • lithium

  • other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine and for three days afterward. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion, clumsiness

  • difficulty speaking

  • discolored or sore mouth

  • dizziness

  • fever, infection

  • numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the hands or feet

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • seizures

  • unusually weak or tired

  • vaginal irritation, dryness, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • irritability

  • metallic taste

  • nausea

  • stomach pain or cramps

  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Oral tablet, extended-release

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial and protozoal infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • disease of the nervous system

  • fungal or yeast infection

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • liver disease

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. Take this medicine on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • amprenavir oral solution

  • cisapride

  • disulfiram

  • dofetilide

  • dronedarone

  • paclitaxel injection

  • pimozide

  • ritonavir oral solution

  • sertraline oral solution

  • sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim injection

  • thioridazine

  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • birth control pills

  • cimetidine

  • lithium

  • other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine and for three days afterward. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion, clumsiness

  • difficulty speaking

  • discolored or sore mouth

  • dizziness

  • fever, infection

  • numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the hands or feet

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • seizures

  • unusually weak or tired

  • vaginal irritation, dryness, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • irritability

  • metallic taste

  • nausea

  • stomach pain or cramps

  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. It medicine is used to treat or prevent certain kinds of bacterial and protozoal infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • disease of the nervous system

  • fungal or yeast infection

  • history of edema, swelling

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • liver disease

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • amprenavir oral solution

  • cisapride

  • disulfiram

  • dofetilide

  • dronedarone

  • paclitaxel injection

  • pimozide

  • ritonavir oral solution

  • sertraline oral solution

  • sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim injection

  • thioridazine

  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • birth control pills

  • cimetidine

  • lithium

  • other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

  • phenobarbital

  • phenytoin

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine and for three days afterward. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion, clumsiness

  • difficulty speaking

  • discolored or sore mouth

  • dizziness

  • fever, infection

  • numbness, tingling, pain or weakness

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • seizures

  • unusual bleeding, bruising

  • unusually weak or tired

  • vaginal irritation, dryness, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • dark urine

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • irritability

  • metallic taste

  • nausea

  • pain, irritation where injected

  • stomach pain, cramps

  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

If you are using this medicine at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.

Metronidazole Topical cream

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. This medicine is used to treat rosacea, also known as adult acne. It reduces redness and inflammation and the number of pimples.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • other chronic illness

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after application. Wash the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat dry. Apply a small amount of this medicine to the affected area and rub gently. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think you are better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin does not improve in 3 weeks. Further healing can take up to 12 weeks.

You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water based products and apply lightly. You may also be able to use sunscreens or moisturizers, ask your doctor or health care professional. Wait at least 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any of these additional products.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • if a new skin condition or rash develops or if rosacea gets worse

  • loss of feeling or tingling of treated area

  • nausea

Side effects recorded include (report to your doctor or health care professional if these continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, itching, or redness

  • dry skin

  • watering eyes

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Topical gel

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. This medicine is used to treat rosacea, also known as adult acne. It reduces redness and inflammation and the number of pimples.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • other chronic illness

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after application. Wash the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat dry. Apply a small amount of this medicine to the affected area and rub gently. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think you are better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin does not improve in 3 weeks. Further healing can take up to 12 weeks.

You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water based products and apply lightly. You may also be able to use sunscreens or moisturizers, ask your doctor or health care professional. Wait at least 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any of these additional products.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • if a new skin condition or rash develops or if rosacea gets worse

  • loss of feeling or tingling of treated area

  • nausea

Side effects recorded include (report to your doctor or health care professional if these continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, itching, or redness

  • dry skin

  • watering eyes

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Topical lotion

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) is an antiinfective. This medicine is used to treat rosacea, also known as adult acne. It reduces redness and inflammation and the number of pimples.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • anemia or other blood disorders

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • other chronic illness

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after application. Wash the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat dry. Apply a small amount of this medicine to the affected area and rub gently. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think you are better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin does not improve in 3 weeks. Further healing can take up to 12 weeks.

You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water based products and apply lightly. You may also be able to use sunscreens or moisturizers, ask your doctor or health care professional. Wait at least 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any of these additional products.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • if a new skin condition or rash develops or if rosacea gets worse

  • loss of feeling or tingling of treated area

  • nausea

Side effects recorded include (report to your doctor or health care professional if these continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, itching, or redness

  • dry skin

  • watering eyes

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Metronidazole Vaginal gel

What is this medicine?

METRONIDAZOLE (me troe NI da zole) VAGINAL GEL is an antiinfective. It is used to treat bacterial vaginitis.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • if you drink alcohol containing drinks

  • if you have taken disulfiram in the past two weeks

  • liver disease

  • peripheral neuropathy

  • seizures

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, parabens, nitroimidazoles, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the vagina. Do not take by mouth or apply to other areas of the body. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Screw the applicator to the tube and squeeze the tube gently to fill the applicator. Lie on your back, part and bend your knees. Insert the applicator tip high in the vagina and push the plunger to release the gel into the vagina. Gently remove the applicator. Wash the applicator well with warm water and soap. Use at regular intervals. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product that contains alcohol

  • cisapride

  • dofetilide

  • dronedarone

  • pimozide

  • thioridazine

  • ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • cimetidine

  • lithium

  • other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

  • warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better in 2 or 3 days.

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medicine and for three days afterwards. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient.

Your clothing may get soiled if you have a vaginal discharge. You can wear a sanitary napkin. Do not use tampons. Wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, panties.

Do not have sex until you have finished your treatment. Having sex can make the treatment less effective. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • dizziness

  • frequent passing of urine

  • headache

  • loss of appetite

  • nausea

  • skin rash, itching

  • stomach pain or cramps

  • vaginal irritation or discharge

  • vulvar burning or swelling

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • dark urine

  • mild vaginal burning

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert