Metronidazole (oral)
Metronidazole is an oral synthetic nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent. It acts by disrupting the DNA synthesis of anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, leading to cell death. It is highly effective against anaerobic pathogens but has no activity against aerobic bacteria or viruses.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage varies significantly based on the specific infection being treated (e.g., giardiasis vs. amebiasis) and patient age. Pediatric dosing is commonly calculated at 30 to 50 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses. Always administer with food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Complete the entire course.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Specialist calculation required
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants weighing under 5 kg have not been established without direct medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 37.5 mg to 75 mg (approx. 1 mL to 2 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Administer with or immediately after food. Ensure accurate measurement using a syringe.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 75 mg to 100 mg (approx. 2 mL to 2.5 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Shake suspension well before use. Complete the full prescribed course.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg to 150 mg (approx. 2.5 mL to 3.75 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Dose may be adjusted by the physician based on whether treating giardiasis (lower dose) or amebiasis (higher dose).
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 150 mg to 200 mg (approx. 3.75 mL to 5 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension)
- Frequency
- Three times daily
- Tracking Notes
- If child is able to swallow tablets safely, appropriate tablet fractions may be used under guidance.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine / Specialist calculation required | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in neonates and infants weighing under 5 kg have not been established without direct medical supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | 37.5 mg to 75 mg (approx. 1 mL to 2 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension) | Three times daily | Administer with or immediately after food. Ensure accurate measurement using a syringe. |
| 8-10 kg | 75 mg to 100 mg (approx. 2 mL to 2.5 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension) | Three times daily | Shake suspension well before use. Complete the full prescribed course. |
| 11-15 kg | 100 mg to 150 mg (approx. 2.5 mL to 3.75 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension) | Three times daily | Dose may be adjusted by the physician based on whether treating giardiasis (lower dose) or amebiasis (higher dose). |
| 16-20 kg | 150 mg to 200 mg (approx. 3.75 mL to 5 mL of 200mg/5mL suspension) | Three times daily | If child is able to swallow tablets safely, appropriate tablet fractions may be used under guidance. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat a wide variety of infections, including anaerobic bacterial infections, protozoal infections (such as giardiasis, trichomoniasis, and amebiasis), and bacterial vaginosis.
Generic Name
MetronidazoleBranded Drug Names
Metronidazole (oral) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.