Metronidazol or metronidazole is an antibiotic that is mostly prescribed by physician for stomach, skin, joints and vagina infections, though it is not used for yeast infections, it is often orally administered.

The brand name of metronidazol/metrodinazole is Flagyl, made by the drug company Pfizer. Metronidazol is also available in gel form, Razed and MetroGel, for the treatment of rosacea, a skin infection.  There are certain side effects of metronidazole which are very normal, such as nausea and a metallic taste in the mouth.

And if using for a long time, your body can have toxic effects. Even though, research showed that animals had cancer during clinical trials, the benefits of metronidazole are far greater than any risks and has been approved by FDA.   People who are suffering from weak liver, Cohn’s disease, and anemia or nerve disorders should avoid taking this medicine.

Metronidazole is easily available in the form of lotion for topical application, cream as well as gel.  Certain skin conditions as in case of vaginal infections can also be treated with this medicine.  According to researchers and doctors, the medication of metronidazole kills the bacteria that cause infections.  It enters the cells and kills the bacteria.

The topical metronidazole is used  in treating outbreaks of rosacea until the disappearance of rashes, while suppositories of this medicine is used to treat vaginal infections caused by haemophilus, gardnerella and corynebacterium and is usually prescribed for at least five days. There are little risk associated with topical metronidazole and can cause certain types of skin cancer.

Whereas, using vaginal metronidazole suppositories can have the side effects as seizures and psychosis. It is strictly advised that, if you are suffering from blood or liver diseases, epilepsy or shortage of WBC, pregnant or lactating, you should avoid the intake of metronidazole.

You should immediately contact your physician if you find the following side effects: seizures, bloody or watery diarrhea, numbness in hands and feet, symptoms of flu/fever, pain while passing urine or white spots or sores in mouth. Ignoring these side effects may lead to more complications.

Therefore, it is advised that prior precautions and following a good physician’s advice is necessary before taking metronidazole. And if you come across any side effects it is always helpful to seek your doctor’s guidance and improve your health.