Metrondiazole

Question 1

Indications of metronidazole

Answer 1

Metronidazole is an
antibiotic commonly used
to treat infections caused
by anaerobic bacteria. They
are indicated to treat C.
difficile, oral infections,
aspiration pneumonia and
surgical and
gynaecological infections.
They are also effective
against infections caused
by protozoa (single-celled
eukaryotes).

Question 2

Metronidazole MOA

Answer 2

They enter the cell by
passive diffusion and are
reduced by anaerobic
bacteria, which generates a
nitroso free radical. This free
radical binds to DNA,
reducing DNA synthesis and
causing damage, which
eventually leads to DNA
degradation and death.
Aerobic bacteria cannot
reduce metronidazole in
this manner, therefore they
are only active against
anaerobic bacteria and
protozoa.

Question 3

Metronidazole SE

Answer 3

GI upset
Peripheral and optic neuropathy
Seziures
Hepatic encephalopathy