metronidazole
see TRICHOMONIASIS .
Metronidazole is used to treat infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, skin, heart, bone, joint, lung, blood, nervous system, and other areas of the body. It is also used to treat certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Metronidazole is also used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by too much of certain types of harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Metronidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking metronidazole affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether metronidazole can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions about fertility while using this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking metronidazole increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. It is unlikely metronidazole would increase the chance of miscarriage; a study of over 4,000 pregnancies with early exposure did not find an increased chance, though a smaller study of 53 exposures suggested a greater chance — it is unclear whether this was due to the medication or the underlying infection. Any specific concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking metronidazole increase the risk of birth defects?
About 3 out of 100 babies have a birth defect for various reasons. Research involving over 5,000 women who took metronidazole in pregnancy did not find an increased chance for birth defects, according to the fact sheet. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information for your situation.
Can taking metronidazole during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet states that metronidazole is not expected to increase the chance of other pregnancy-related problems, such as preterm delivery (birth before week 37) or low birth weight (less than 2500 grams). Discuss any individual concerns with your healthcare provider.
Can taking metronidazole during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to the fact sheet, studies have not been done to see whether metronidazole can cause behavior or learning issues for the child. Because this question has not been studied, it is a good topic to bring up with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking metronidazole?
The fact sheet notes that metronidazole passes into breastmilk, with amounts varying by dose and route (oral or IV levels can be similar to doses given to infants for treatment; vaginal or topical use may be lower, but this is not known). Most breastfed babies exposed have not shown side effects, though signs like loose stools, diaper rash, or thrush should be reported to the baby's healthcare provider; some product labels suggest pausing breastfeeding during and for two days after treatment, but possible benefits may outweigh risks. Your healthcare provider can help determine what is best for you and your baby.
Source: National Library of Medicine
metronidazole