Metronidazole

Generic and Trade Names

Metronidazole

Flagyl

Description

Metronidazole is considered to be a nitroimidazole compound. It is active against various anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. The exact mechanism of action of Metronidazole is not known. It is used to treat primarily anaerobic bacterial infections, but it has been shown to be effective for treating pseudomembranous colitis, H. pylori infections, Crohn's disease and various other gynecologic and abdominal infections. (Facts and Comparisons 1999)

Nutritional Considerations

Avoid alcohol, disulfuram reaction possible. (Fraser 1997)(Pronsky 1999)

Take with food to decrease stomach upset. (Pronsky 1999)

Sodium content may be an issue for those on low sodium diet. (Pronsky 1999)

Herbal Considerations

Due to Metronidazole's known interaction with coumadin, it may be wise to avoid using herbs with anticoagulant effects like: angelica, anise, arnica, asafoetida, capsicum, celery, chamomile, clove, danshen, fenugreek, feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, ginseng (Panax), horse chestnut, horseradish, licorice, meadowsweet, prickly ash, onion, papain, passionflower, poplar,red clover, turmeric, wild carrot, wild lettuce, willow. (Newall 1996).

References:

Facts and Comparisons, Clinisphere 2.0, Wolters Kluwer Company, 1999.
        
Fraser AG. "Pharmacokinetic interactions between alcohol and other drugs." Clin Pharmacokinet, 1997;33(2):79-90.

Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996

Pronsky, Z Food Medication Interactions, 11th edition, 1999.