Metrogyl 400 Tablet: Uses for Infections, Dosage & Warnings

Metrogyl 400 is a widely prescribed antibiotic that helps treat various bacterial and parasitic infections. It contains Metronidazole, a well-known antimicrobial agent particularly effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa. Due to its broad-spectrum activity, doctors often recommend Metrogyl 400 for infections involving the stomach, intestines, skin, joints, respiratory tract, and reproductive organs.
If you have been prescribed Metrogyl 400 or want to understand how it works, this comprehensive article will provide all the essential information about its uses, dosage guidelines, side effects, interactions, and safety precautions.

What Is Metrogyl 400?

Metrogyl 400 is an oral antibiotic tablet that contains 400 mg of Metronidazole as the active ingredient. It belongs to the nitroimidazole class of antibiotics, which are effective against microorganisms that thrive in low-oxygen environments (anaerobic bacteria) and some parasites.
Metronidazole is included in the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines due to its critical role in managing infections that could otherwise lead to serious complications.

How Does Metrogyl 400 Work?

Metronidazole works by penetrating the cells of bacteria and protozoa, where it disrupts their DNA synthesis. This action interferes with the microbes' ability to grow, replicate, and survive. As a result, the infection-causing organisms are destroyed.

It is particularly useful for treating infections in areas where oxygen is scarce, such as deep wounds, abscesses, or internal organs.

Indications: What Is Metrogyl 400 Used For?

Doctors prescribe Metrogyl 400 for a wide range of infections, particularly those caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. Here are the most common conditions it is used to treat:

1. Dental Infections

Metrogyl 400 is frequently used to treat:

• Acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis (a severe gum infection)
• Dental abscesses
• Post-operative infections in the oral cavity
• It is often combined with other antibiotics to provide broader antibacterial coverage.

2. Gastrointestinal Infections

Metrogyl 400 is effective in treating:

• Amoebiasis (intestinal and liver infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica)
• Giardiasis (a diarrhoeal illness caused by Giardia lamblia)
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (a serious infection often linked to prior antibiotic use)

3. Gynaecological and Pelvic Infections

It is used in conditions such as:

• Bacterial vaginosis
• Trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Metrogyl 400 may be used alone or in combination with other antibiotics for these conditions.

4. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

• Metrogyl 400 helps manage:
• Infected wounds
• Pressure ulcers
• Surgical site infections involving anaerobic bacteria

5. Liver Abscess and Amoebic Hepatitis

In cases of amoebic liver abscess, Metrogyl 400 is highly effective. It is often followed by a luminal agent like diloxanide furoate to eliminate remaining parasites from the intestine.

6. Post-Surgical and Trauma-Related Infections

Metrogyl 400 is commonly used to prevent infections after certain surgical procedures, especially:

• Colorectal surgery
• Gynaecological operations
• Abdominal trauma surgery
• Recommended Dosage of Metrogyl 400

The dose and duration of Metrogyl 400 depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as patient factors such as age, weight, liver function, and other medications being taken.

Here is a general dosing guide for adults:

Note: Metrogyl 400 should be taken after food to reduce the chances of gastric discomfort.

Important Precautions Before Taking Metrogyl 400

Before starting Metrogyl 400, discuss your medical history and current health status with your doctor. Let them know if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Suffer from epilepsy or other neurological disorders
• Consume alcohol regularly
• Are taking blood thinners, lithium, or disulfiram
• Metronidazole may require dose adjustments or careful monitoring in certain health conditions.

Common Side Effects of Metrogyl 400

Like most medications, Metrogyl 400 can cause side effects. While many are mild and temporary, others may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal cramps or discomfort
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Dark-coloured urine (harmless and reversible)

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
• Seizures
• Mood changes, confusion, or hallucinations
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, swelling, or itching
• Signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, fatigue)
• If you notice any serious or persistent symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions with Metrogyl 400

• Metrogyl 400 can interact with several other medications. These interactions may reduce the effectiveness of treatment or increase the risk of side effects.
  Some important interactions include:
• Alcohol: Combining Metrogyl with alcohol can cause a severe reaction with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, flushing, and palpitations. Avoid alcohol during the course and for at least 48 hours after the last dose.
• Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Increases the risk of bleeding.
• Lithium: Can raise lithium levels to toxic levels.
• Phenytoin and Phenobarbital: May lower Metronidazole levels in the blood.
• Disulfiram: Increases the risk of serious psychiatric reactions.

Always inform your doctor about any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements you are taking.

How to Take Metrogyl 400 Safely

• Take exactly as prescribed. Do not self-medicate or change the dose without consulting your doctor.
• Complete the full course, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure or antibiotic resistance.
• Take the tablet with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip it if it's nearly time for the next dose—do not double the dose.
• Drink plenty of fluids and rest to help your body recover.

When to Seek Medical Help

Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Experience worsening symptoms after a few days of treatment
• Develop severe side effects like seizures, numbness, or rash
• Notice signs of liver issues (jaundice, dark urine, or extreme fatigue)
• Have persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

Prompt medical attention can help prevent complications.

Conclusion

Metrogyl 400 is a powerful and versatile antibiotic that plays a crucial role in treating infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. When used responsibly under medical supervision, it can provide rapid relief from infection and prevent serious complications.

To ensure effective treatment:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Avoid alcohol and drug interactions.
• Be aware of potential side effects and seek help when needed.

Never start or stop an antibiotic like Metrogyl 400 without medical advice. Responsible use protects not only your health but also helps combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. If you have further questions about your prescription, consult your doctor or pharmacist.