GODRICK CHUKWUEBUKA 
17/MHS03/016
ANATOMY 

NAME OF DRUG
Metronidazole 

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY-
Metronidazole has activity against protozoans like Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis

MECHANISM OF ACTION 
It inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by disrupting the DNA of microbial cells.

PHARMACOKINETICS-
Metronidazole given orally is absorbed almost completely, with bioavailability > 90% for tablets; absorption is unaffected by infection. Rectal and intravaginal absorption are 67 to 82%, and 20 to 56%, of the dose, respectively. Metronidazole is extensively metabolised by the liver to 5 metabolites.

SIDE EFFECTS-
Common metronidazole side effects may include:
	•	nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain;
	•	diarrhea, constipation;
	•	headache;
	•	unpleasant metallic taste;
	•	rash, itching;
	•	vaginal itching or discharge;
	•	mouth sores; or.
	•	swollen, red, or "hairy" tongue.