Metronidazole 0.5% w/v IV Infusion is a potent antimicrobial medication widely prescribed to treat serious anaerobic bacterial infections and certain protozoal infections. Administered intravenously, it ensures rapid absorption and immediate action, making it essential for severe or systemic infections.
What is Metronidazole IV Infusion?
Generic Name: Metronidazole
Strength: 0.5% w/v (5 mg/mL)
Formulation: 100 mL intravenous infusion containing 500 mg of metronidazole
Route of Administration: Intravenous (IV)
Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic that works by inhibiting the DNA synthesis of anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, ultimately killing the pathogens. It is particularly effective in areas of the body where oxygen levels are low, such as the gastrointestinal tract, abscesses, and deep tissue infections.
Medical Uses of Metronidazole IV Infusion
Metronidazole IV is used to manage a wide variety of infections, including:
1. Anaerobic Bacterial Infections
Intra-abdominal infections: peritonitis, appendicitis, liver abscess
Septicemia: blood infections caused by anaerobic bacteria
Bone and joint infections: osteomyelitis
Central nervous system infections: brain abscesses, meningitis
Gynecological infections: endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic abscess
Post-operative infections: after surgeries prone to anaerobic bacterial infections
2. Protozoal Infections
Amoebiasis (Entamoeba histolytica)
Giardiasis (Giardia lamblia)
Trichomoniasis (Trichomonas vaginalis)
3. Surgical Prophylaxis
Prevents anaerobic infections during abdominal or gynecological surgeries.
Dosage and Administration
Adults:
Standard dose: 500 mg IV every 8 hours
Infusion time: Administer over 20–60 minutes to reduce side effects
Children:
Dose: 7.5 mg/kg IV every 8 hours
Dosage must be carefully calculated based on age and weight
Special considerations:
Elderly patients: Monitor renal and hepatic function
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary
Always follow the prescription given by a healthcare professional
Contraindications
Metronidazole IV should not be used in patients with:
Known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles
First trimester of pregnancy (unless absolutely necessary)
Severe liver disease
Side Effects
Common side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Metallic taste in the mouth
Abdominal discomfort
Headache, dizziness
Rare but serious side effects:
Seizures or peripheral neuropathy
Blood disorders such as leukopenia with prolonged therapy
Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, anaphylaxis)
Important note: Alcohol should be strictly avoided during therapy and for at least 72 hours after the last dose, as it may cause disulfiram-like reactions (flushing, vomiting, palpitations).
Pharmacology
Mechanism of action: Metronidazole is bactericidal and protozoacidal. It interferes with the DNA of anaerobic microorganisms, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and resulting in cell death.
Absorption & distribution: Rapidly distributed in plasma; penetrates CNS, liver, lungs, saliva, and breast milk.
Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: 60–80% excreted via urine.
Precautions and Monitoring
Monitor liver and kidney function in patients with impairment
Prolonged use may require blood count monitoring
Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Use only if prescribed by a physician
Pediatric patients: Dose carefully calculated based on age and weight
Avoid concomitant alcohol consumption
Monitor for neurological symptoms during long-term therapy
How to Administer
Use single-use IV infusion bags only
Administer slowly over 20–60 minutes
Do not mix with other medications in the same infusion bag
Storage
Store below 25°C
Protect from light
Use immediately after opening; do not store leftover solution
