Metronidazole for thrush in women - instructions for use

From this article you will learn: when Metronidazole is prescribed for thrush, indications for use, and in which cases the drug is not suitable. Mechanism of action, how Metronidazole is used. Possible complications and contraindications, side effects.

Author of the article: Victoria Stoyanova, category 2 doctor, head of the laboratory at the diagnostic and treatment center (2015–2016).

Article publication date: 10.29.2017

Article updated date: 02/12/2020

Metronidazole is a drug that is actively active against pathogenic bacteria and single-celled protozoan microorganisms (amoebas, lamblia, trichomonas).

The medication does not have an antifungal effect; its prescription for thrush may be justified when the process occurs against the background of:

vaginal dysbiosis (dysbacteriosis with a predominance of pathogenic bacteria);
sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis);
mixed infections (bacteria, protozoa, fungi).

In these cases, Metronidazole is prescribed in 89–92%, occasionally preferring other antibacterial agents. It quickly restores the normal microflora of the genital tract and normalizes local immunity, indirectly affecting the disappearance of pathogenic fungi (the main cause of thrush is weakened general or local immunity).

When treating thrush, Metronidazole is not prescribed without any drug with a targeted fungicidal effect, since it is not effective against the fungi Candida albicans (the causative agent of candidiasis in 80% of cases) and can only temporarily eliminate severe symptoms of the disease.

One of the representatives of antifungal agents is Fluconazole. The doctor may prescribe the drug in various dosages depending on the characteristics and severity of thrush.

The drug helps both men and women equally well due to its wide range of indications for use:

For the treatment of sexually transmitted protozoa, contact a dermatovenerologist.
For mixed bacterial and fungal infections of the genital tract in women - see a gynecologist, in men - see a urologist.
For diseases of the stomach and intestines - see a gastroenterologist.

When is Metronidazole prescribed?

Metronidazole is a drug with broad antibacterial and antiprotozoal action; it is prescribed for the treatment of:

mixed infection of the genital tract (caused by fungi, bacteria, trichomonas) in women and men;
pseudomembranous enterocolitis (inflammation of the intestine due to antibiotic therapy);
inflammatory diseases of the vulva, vagina and uterus (except the cervix) in women;
gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (in combination with the antibiotic amoxicillin);
protozoal intestinal and non-intestinal infections (amoebiasis, balantidiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, giardiasis);
ulcerative stomatitis;
bacterial infections of the pelvic organs (colpitis, endometritis, abscesses of the fallopian tubes and ovaries in women, acute inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity);
bacterial processes of the central nervous system (meningitis, brain abscess);
bacterial pathologies of bones, joints, connective tissue, skin (endocarditis, pneumonia, pyogenic arthritis, trophic ulcers, etc.).

Metronidazole helps fight Trichomonas

For prevention:

inflammatory complications after major and minor surgical interventions.

Metronidazole increases the resistance of healthy tissues and increases the susceptibility of cancer cells during radiotherapy of oncological tumors. In complex treatment of thrush, it enhances the effect of antifungal antibiotics.

In what cases is the drug not suitable?

The drug is ineffective in the treatment of bacterial infections that are insensitive to the active substance of the drug (for example, caused by staphylococci and streptococci). Therefore, its appointment is made on the basis of inoculating biological material (scraping, smear, secretions) from the lesion.

Mechanism of action

The active component in Metronidazole is nitroimidazole metronidazole. The action is based on the activation of the substance due to transport proteins of protozoa and bacteria. They attach and restore it to a form that can suppress the synthesis of nucleic acids (components of DNA). This causes the death of pathogenic microorganisms.

The product is 99% effective against trichomoniasis, 82–85% effective against mixed pathogenic microflora in combination with antifungal agents.

Metronidazole for thrush is prescribed as an auxiliary antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent when a secondary or sexually transmitted infection occurs.

How is Metronidazole used?

Forms of release of metronidazole

When treating thrush in combination with a secondary bacterial infection, different dosage forms of Metronidazole are used as follows:

The gel is applied to the mucous membrane using a special applicator, 5 g twice a day (the course is 5 days) or a thin layer on the affected surfaces (skin), previously washed and dried (the full course of treatment lasts from 1 to 4 months).
Suppositories are inserted as deep as possible into the vagina once a day (treatment is continued for 10–12 days, repeated in courses if necessary).
Tablets for the treatment of bacterial complications (including in combination with urogenital candidiasis) are taken twice a day (the daily dose should not exceed 2 g). The duration of the course is adjusted by the attending physician; it usually lasts from 7 to 10 days. Other associated sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis) are treated with a total daily dose of 400 mg for a week.
Injections are intended for the treatment of bacterial complications (abscesses) or severe protozoal infections (intestinal amebiasis, dysentery), when the administration of other forms of the drug is ineffective. In these cases, the dosage and duration of the course are determined individually.

Metronidazole tablets are prescribed for the prevention of bacterial complications before (750 to 1500 mg per day, 3-4 days) or after surgery (1000 mg once).

Possible complications

When using the solution at the injection site, thrombophlebitis (inflammation of nearby subcutaneous vessels) rarely (1-2%) occurs, which is accompanied by swelling, redness, and pain.

A long course of treatment with Metronidazole can also cause thrush. The effect of the drug is not selective; it suppresses the growth and development of any bacterial flora. This causes suppression of local immunity and the development of fungal infection (candidiasis).

When taking alcoholic beverages, ethanol-based medications, and Metronidazole, severe headaches, nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting appear.

The drug may cause a false positive Nelson-Meyer test for syphilis.

Oral candidiasis caused by taking antibacterial agents against a background of reduced immunity

Contraindications

Metronidazole is contraindicated for use in:

organic diseases of the central nervous system (epilepsy);
low levels of leukocytes (leukopenia) in the blood;
allergies to the components of the product;
pregnancy (in the 1st trimester, with caution in other periods);
breastfeeding;
liver diseases (failure, cirrhosis).

The drug is not prescribed to children under one year of age and is carefully combined with indirect anticoagulants; this may cause clotting disorders.

Today, one of the most popular indirect anticoagulants is Warfarin. Metronidazole and indirect anticoagulants are combined carefully

Side effects

The use of Metronidazole can cause numerous side effects:

The central nervous system reacts with headaches, speech and coordination disorders, weakness, lethargy, irritability, hallucinations, and insomnia.
Gastrointestinal tract - dryness, metallic taste in the mouth, vomiting, nausea, stool disorders, gastrointestinal colic, the appearance of stomatitis, glossitis.
Genitourinary system - the appearance of thrush and cystitis, changes in the quality (red-brown color) and quantity (increase) of urine.
An allergy to the drug manifests itself in the form of skin rashes and redness, nasal congestion, temperature changes, and joint pain.

The drug can change the number of leukocytes in the blood count (reduce) and ECG readings.

Owner and responsible for the site and content: Alexey Afinogenov.

Often, urogenital candidiasis in women occurs in association, that is, with or against the background of a bacterial infection, which is sometimes difficult to treat. An important point remains the selection of an adequate and suitable drug, so this article will discuss how to take Metronidazole for thrush and when it is not recommended to do so.

Instructions for use of Metronidazole for thrush

Metronidazole is a drug that has not only an antimicrobial, but also a protozoal effect. At the same time, it has a bactericidal and antiulcer effect.

In medicine, the drug is used as a treatment for infectious diseases of the peritoneal cavity and the osteoarticular system. It is successfully used in the fight against gynecological pathologies, trichomoniasis and acne.

Release form: suppositories and tablets

Metronidazole for candidiasis is used only in two of its dosage forms - suppositories and tablets. The latter are round in shape and greenish-yellow in color, with a bitter taste. Available in standard contour packs of 10 or 20 pieces. Dose of active substance: tablets may contain 500 and 250 mg. Auxiliary components are represented by starch, acetylacetic acid and steatite.

The candles have a rocket-like appearance and a whitish-yellow color. One suppository may contain 500, 250 or 125 mg of active substance. The cellular packaging contains 7 suppositories intended only for intravaginal administration.

Properties

Metronidazole has the following effects:

Antibacterial.
Antiulcer.
Antiprotozoal.

The mechanism of action is based on the biotransformation of the active substance and the restoration of its 5-nitro group under the influence of transport proteins of protozoa and bacteria. Reduced metronidazole affects the DNA of the pathogen cell, blocking the synthesis of nucleic acids in it. The result is the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms.

The drug also has a bactericidal effect on obligate anaerobes. Metronidazole fights against mixed infections only as part of complex therapy with antibacterial agents. In the treatment of peptic ulcers, the medicine is also combined with amoxicillin, which prevents the development of H. Pylori resistance to metronidazole. Similar to disulfiram, it promotes the development of sensitization to ethylene and stimulates regeneration processes.

Dosages

For the treatment of acute or chronic genital candidiasis, Metronidazole tablets are prescribed 250 mg twice a day for 10 days. Nonspecific vaginitis involves the use of 500 mg tablets, taken once a day or divided into 2 times, also for at least 10 days.

Metronidazole suppositories for thrush are inserted into the vagina, 1 piece (500 mg) in the morning and at night before bed. The course of treatment should not exceed 5-10 days. Or you can use suppositories once in a dose of 2 grams.

Side effects and contraindications

Instructions for use of Metronidazole for thrush states that the drug is contraindicated in:

The presence of individual hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Any stage of liver failure.
Lesions of the central nervous system of an organic nature (tumors, degenerative diseases, epilepsy, etc.).
Early pregnancy.
Reduced level of white blood cells (leukopenia), even in history.

While taking the pills, patients may develop some adverse reactions. Most often these are dyspeptic symptoms (nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, thinning and frequent stools), weakness, headaches, insomnia, dizziness. In some cases, seizures, hallucinations and confusion may occur. A woman may also complain of pain in the joints and a burning sensation in the area of the external opening of the urethra. Allergic reactions to the drug and symptoms of dysuria are somewhat less common.

How to use?

If Metronidazole tablets for thrush are prescribed as treatment, they should be taken in the indicated dosage during or immediately after meals. Do not chew, but drink with plenty of clean water. It is advisable that the drug be taken at the same time of day.

Before you start administering Metronidazole vaginal suppositories for thrush in women, you need to perform an evening intimate toilet of the external genitalia and wash your hands thoroughly. Having taken a comfortable position (lying on your back with your legs bent and apart), the candle is inserted into the vaginal cavity with slow and gentle movements as deep as possible. To prevent the molten substance from leaking onto your underwear, it is advisable to first put a sanitary pad on it. After administration, the woman should lie down for at least 30 minutes.

Mechanism of action

The active component in Metronidazole is nitroimidazole metronidazole. The action is based on the activation of the substance due to transport proteins of protozoa and bacteria. They attach and restore it to a form that can suppress the synthesis of nucleic acids (components of DNA). This causes the death of pathogenic microorganisms.

The product is 99% effective against trichomoniasis, 82–85% effective against mixed pathogenic microflora in combination with antifungal agents.

Metronidazole for thrush is prescribed as an auxiliary antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent when a secondary or sexually transmitted infection occurs.

How to take metronidazole for thrush? In each specific case, the treatment regimen may vary greatly. Much depends on the severity of the fungal infection and the location of the infection.

The drug has both its indications and limitations, as well as side effects. You can get complete information about the drug from the instructions, which you should read. To achieve the maximum therapeutic effect, you must adhere to all medical recommendations.

Metrogyl gel in cosmetology

A course of infusions is rarely given against genital thrush, because this results in too many side effects on the body. Douching with metronidazole solution is not carried out.

If you notice persistent tingling, numbness and/or weakness in your extremities, stop taking Metrogyl and call your doctor as soon as possible.

Thrush can be provoked by several types of pathogens; metronidazole is a drug with a broad spectrum of action against anaerobic bacteria, fungi, and some protozoa, and therefore is often an effective remedy in its treatment.

The drug is powerless against aerobic bacteria. The active substance treats by disrupting the respiratory processes in microbial cells or suppressing DNA synthesis, causing cell death. It is characterized by good penetration into human tissues and cells, so treatment with a tablet form will lead to the distribution of the substance throughout the patient’s body, and the use of topical agents will reduce the likelihood of penetration into cells.

It is known that when metronidazole is taken orally, the drug inhibits the DNA synthesis of pathogens, and thereby prevents the replication of pathogens. However, exactly how it relieves inflammation when applied topically is currently unknown.

Metrogyl for the treatment of vaginal infections is sold together with a special applicator with which the gel is inserted into the vagina. Most women prefer to inject the gel while lying on their back with their knees bent, but you can do it in any position that is comfortable for you.

Urinary tract and reproductive system infections caused by bacteria and other microorganisms

It should be borne in mind that Metrogyl acne gel does not always help; When treating moderate-to-severe and severe forms of acne, topical medications, as a rule, are not effective enough.

Acute ulcerative gingivitis (severe gum infection)

This antibiotic in tablets is prescribed more often for diseases of the digestive tract, and not against thrush. The tablets quickly dissolve and enter the bloodstream, being a highly effective remedy.

The Candida mushroom is resistant to this complex medicine, so there is no point in taking pills against thrush caused by this fungus. The tablet form can be used only when fighting an advanced infection, when the drug is treated systemically.

The dosage is selected individually depending on the duration of therapy. In women, the effect occurs faster with combination therapy with tablets and suppositories; antibiotic treatment is more effective when combined.

This drug should not be used by anyone who has taken disulfiram in the past two weeks. Allergies to Metrogyl gel and other drugs containing metronidazole, as well as to nitroimidazoles (for example, tinidazole), or parabens are also contraindications to the use of this drug.

headache;
antiulcer;
Nausea, vomiting

a disease of the genitourinary system caused by the protozoan unicellular parasite Trichomonas vaginalis;

Metronidazole is an antibacterial drug that is intended for the treatment of various infectious diseases of the genital tract (specific vaginitis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis and others). Doctors often prescribe the drug for the treatment of duodenal or gastric ulcers.

Metronidazole has an enhancing effect of indirect anticoagulants.
Allergy to any constituents of Metrogyl or to other nitroimidazoles
increased excitability;

The drug has high pharmacological activity: it is excreted mostly through the kidneys, and its changes occur in the liver.

Nasal congestion
surface treatment gel;

There are different opinions on the treatment of thrush with Metronidazole, both by gynecologists and their patients. Reviews about this drug have spread widely across the Internet, and each of them misleads women.

We recommend! Betadine suppositories for thrush: treatment, reviews, instructions.

Can candidiasis be cured with Metronidazole?

Many patients wonder: is it possible to cure thrush with suppositories or Metronidazole tablets? In fact, this is not a specific antifungal drug, but an effective combination drug that is prescribed both in isolation (for the treatment of bacterial or protozoal infections) and as part of complex therapy.

Its prescription for candidiasis is justified if there is an infection associated with bacteria, that is, when thrush occurs against the background of nonspecific or specific colpitis.

Features of drug treatment

When treating with metronidazole, you should not drink alcohol, otherwise the following symptoms may appear:

sharp pain in the abdomen of a spastic nature;
nausea;
headaches;
increased blood flow to the face.

Do not take the drug simultaneously with amoxicycline to persons under 18 years of age.
Treatment leads to changes in the blood picture, so constant blood monitoring is required.
The antibiotic cures, but the urine turns dark.
Treatment should be carried out simultaneously in both sexual partners.
It should not be used orally, intravaginally or externally by patients who took disulfiram less than two weeks ago.
Metronidazole has an enhancing effect of indirect anticoagulants.

Recurrence of thrush after treatment with Metronidazole

Recurrent thrush after Metronidazole is possible if the therapy did not include systemic and local antifungal drugs, which should be selected taking into account the sensitivity of the pathogen. Candidiasis is caused by yeast-like fungi, which are completely unaffected by the active substance of the drug.

Also, prolonged and uncontrolled use of the drug can lead to severe vaginal dysbiosis, which will only aggravate the course of candidiasis and complicate its treatment. Let us remind you that Metronidazole will help against thrush only if, as a result of bacteriological culture of pathological materials from the vagina, cultures of fungi and pathogenic bacteria are isolated in a diagnostic titer.

Symptoms of thrush in women

itching and burning are unbearable. Intensifies at night, upon contact with water and urine;
cheesy discharge from the genital tract;
the vulva and vagina are swollen, red with microcracks. There is a white, cheesy coating in the folds between the labia and on the walls of the vagina;
pain during sexual intercourse due to microcracks and inflammation of the vagina;
general condition disorder, depression, anxiety;
pain when urinating and in the lower abdomen when the fungus spreads to the urethra, bladder, kidneys.

Reviews from women about the use of Metronidazole

The effectiveness of the drug as part of the complex treatment of thrush is confirmed by positive medical experience and medical statistics. You can also find a significant number of positive reviews about the use of Metronidazole on the Internet.

Varvara, 29 years old: the doctor prescribed me treatment for thrush with Metronidazole, since bacteria were also inoculated. I took the tablets for 2 weeks together with antifungal suppositories and was pleased with the result, since the results on the second smear were satisfactory.

Valentina, 27 years old: after I was diagnosed with bacterial vaginitis and thrush at the same time, the doctor prescribed Metronidazole in tablets and suppositories together. I completed a course of treatment and everything returned to normal. I am very glad that I used this particular drug.

Daria, 41 years old: Metronidazole was prescribed to me by a gynecologist when they discovered thrush. I took one tablet twice a day for 10 days. Positive results appeared within two days and, most importantly, no adverse reactions. And the price is low - I took 20 pieces for 125 rubles.

Doctors do not often prescribe Metronidazole for thrush in women, since this drug is usually intended to treat other diseases. However, this drug is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is used to prevent and treat complications of candidiasis. Metronidazole should be taken for any disease, including thrush, only as prescribed by a doctor.

Characteristics of Metronidazole

This product is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It contains anaerobic bacteria and most types of protozoa. These groups of microorganisms include many causative agents of genitourinary infections and sexually transmitted diseases. The active substance interacts with the proteins of the pathogen and disrupts the synthesis of bacterial or protozoal DNA.

The medicine has several release forms:

pills;
vaginal suppositories;
ointment, cream and gel;
solution for infusion.

It should be noted that when using vaginal suppositories and gel, the active substance is absorbed, unlike most products used for thrush. Metronidazole penetrates all histohematic barriers, including the blood-brain and placental barriers, and is excreted in sweat, saliva and breast milk. Metabolism of the drug occurs in the liver, its products are excreted through the kidneys. A small part enters the intestines and is excreted in the feces.

The drug has a fairly large list of contraindications and side effects, so before taking Metronidazole for thrush in women, it is important to consult a doctor.

The medicine should not be taken in the following cases:

with hypersensitivity to it and related drugs;
liver failure;
organic brain lesions (head injuries, encephalitis, epilepsy);
during breastfeeding;
with an existing decrease in the number of leukocytes (including a history).

Renal failure and pregnancy may require dosage adjustments, which must be approached with extreme caution.

Side effects include abdominal pain, appetite disturbances, nausea, vomiting, and allergic manifestations. When taking vaginal forms - pain and itching at the injection site, redness, rash, painful urination. Emotional disturbances, increased fatigue, irritability, and decreased concentration may occur. With a tendency to thrombosis, thrombophlebitis and thromboembolism may develop.

Side effects and contraindications

Metronidazole is contraindicated for use in:

organic diseases of the central nervous system (epilepsy);
low levels of leukocytes (leukopenia) in the blood;
allergies to the components of the product;
pregnancy (in the 1st trimester, with caution in other periods);
breastfeeding;
liver diseases (failure, cirrhosis).

The drug is not prescribed to children under one year of age and is carefully combined with indirect anticoagulants; this may cause clotting disorders.

Today, one of the most popular indirect anticoagulants is Warfarin. Metronidazole and indirect anticoagulants are combined carefully

Basic:

a history of blood disease;
dysfunction of the liver, kidneys, central nervous system;
intolerance to at least one drug component.

The use of Metronidazole during pregnancy is possible only from the second trimester under special medical supervision.

The active component is characterized by high penetrating ability and cumulative effect (accumulates in the body). As a result, the use of Metronidazole for candidiasis may be accompanied by side effects from different systems. Sometimes you may experience:

General weakness;
Irritability;
Headache;
Increased excitability;
Nausea;
Digestive disorders (constipation or diarrhea);
Vomit;
Insomnia;
Convulsions;
Skin rashes;
Anorexia;
Impaired consciousness;
Nasal congestion;
Dry mucous membranes and skin;
Hallucinations...

The instructions for use of Metronidazole tablets for thrush and other pharmacological forms of this drug indicate conditions in which the use of the drug is strictly prohibited. The drug should not be taken for the following diseases:

Kidney failure.
Allergy to the active ingredients of the medication.
Status epilepticus and other central nervous system pathologies.
Liver failure.
Leukopenia.
Disruption of the pancreas.

Disorders of the digestive tract - vomiting and lack of appetite, diarrhea, intestinal colic, nausea and the presence of a “metallic” taste in the mouth, constipation.
Changes in blood composition – leukopenia.
Allergic phenomena - redness of the skin, rashes of various types (usually urticaria), increased temperature, lacrimation and rhinitis.
Central nervous system disorder - migraine, depression, dizziness, lack of sleep, confusion and loss of consciousness.
Disorders of the urinary system - urinary incontinence, inflammation of the bladder, lack of urine and polyuria.

Why is it prescribed for thrush?

Candida fungi, the causative agents of thrush, are not included in the spectrum of action of Metronidazole. However, candidiasis is often combined with other genitourinary infections, often contributes to their development, or itself develops against their background. Recurrent thrush and STDs contribute to each other's transition to a chronic form. Therefore, when asked whether Metronidazole helps with thrush, doctors give the following answer: it is primarily a means of preventing and treating concomitant infections, and should be used in combination with other drugs.

An antibiotic is prescribed for chronic or recurrent thrush, if pathogens of sexually transmitted infections are detected in vaginal smears. It is also prescribed in the complex treatment of cystitis caused by microorganisms sensitive to the drug against the background of chronic thrush.

For acute candidiasis without complications, Metronidazole is not prescribed - it will be ineffective.

The medicine is prescribed exclusively to adult women who have no contraindications and are not breastfeeding at the time of treatment. The advisability of use in pregnant women is a controversial issue, which is decided individually each time. Metronidazole for thrush is contraindicated in children and adolescents. The drug is primarily used in the form of vaginal suppositories, cream, gel and tablets.

Reproductive tract diseases for which Metronidazole is prescribed:

trichomonas vaginitis and urethritis;
bacterial vaginosis;
genital injuries, poorly healing ruptures;
prevention of complications after gynecological operations.

If the listed conditions are combined with thrush, then Metronidazole is recommended as part of complex therapy. For injuries and after operations, it is used prophylactically.

Side effects

Side effects that pose a serious threat to women's health have not been identified with Metronidazole. Toxic events are rare.

During treatment, patients may complain of dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, metallic taste in the mouth, urinary incontinence, and abdominal pain. With local therapy, itching, redness and irritation of the skin are possible.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcYLx1O-qww

The drug is not prescribed for individual hypersensitivity and immunity to the components of the drug, liver failure, pregnancy, and neurological diseases.

The central nervous system reacts with headaches, speech and coordination disorders, weakness, lethargy, irritability, hallucinations, and insomnia.
Gastrointestinal tract - dryness, metallic taste in the mouth, vomiting, nausea, stool disorders, gastrointestinal colic, the appearance of stomatitis, glossitis.
Genitourinary system - the appearance of thrush and cystitis, changes in the quality (red-brown color) and quantity (increase) of urine.
An allergy to the drug manifests itself in the form of skin rashes and redness, nasal congestion, temperature changes, and joint pain.

The drug can change the number of leukocytes in the blood count (reduce) and ECG readings.

Most representatives of the fair sex encounter candidiasis, which is why there are quite a lot of opinions about the correct treatment of this disease. Metronidazole tablets for thrush are an effective remedy that helps completely eliminate the problem.

Experts take a comprehensive approach to the treatment of thrush. It is aimed at changing the entire lifestyle and adjusting nutrition. Both systemic and local medications are used. Taking tablets is associated with a high risk of unwanted side effects, yet they are effective in various forms and localizations of fungal infection.

How to use external dosage forms?

Metronidazole suppositories for thrush (recurrent, chronic) against the background of bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis are used strictly as prescribed by the doctor. The duration of the course of treatment is 10 days, if necessary it can be extended. The patient must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations. It is impossible to interrupt the course ahead of time - this leads to the release of insensitive strains of bacteria and a decrease in the effectiveness of the drug.

Before administering the suppository, you must thoroughly wash your hands and genitals and dry your skin. The suppository is inserted while lying on your side or back, as deep as possible into the vagina. After the procedure, you need to lie down for a while until it dissolves and 15-30 minutes after that. The number of suppositories taken per day is one or two, depending on the severity of the disease. If the suppository is administered once a day, it is best to do it before bedtime.

Vaginal tablets and Metronidazole gel are used in the same way. While treatment is ongoing, any vaginal procedures are contraindicated - the use of tampons, sex, douching. It is advisable to refrain from swimming in open reservoirs and pools, taking baths, going to the bathhouse, sauna and gym.

Metronidazole ointment is applied externally, including for diseases of the genital organs. It is lubricated on clean and dry skin, after removing the secretions characteristic of thrush. If necessary, you can apply a bandage over the lubricated area. Used for vaginal ruptures and genital injuries.

Application of the gel

A small amount is inserted into the woman's vagina using a special device - an applicator. The procedure is similar to inserting a candle. The drug needs to be thoroughly, but without too much pressure, applied to the mucous membrane.

For 8 hours after the introduction of the gel, water procedures (shower, pool, bath) should not be used. After each use, rinse the applicator with water.

In the acute period: 1 procedure/day for 3-5 days; for chronic course: 1-2 times/day for 7-10 days.

How to take tablets and solution?

Metronidazole tablets are taken orally during meals or immediately after. They are washed down with plenty of water, without chewing. The dosage depends on the causative agent of the disease and the patient's condition. For trichomoniasis in combination with thrush, 1 tablet (250 mg) is usually prescribed once a day for 10 days; in addition, Metronidazole vaginal suppositories are prescribed.

Instructions for thrush complicated by bacterial vaginosis recommend in this case not taking pills, but vaginal suppositories or gel. To prevent bacterial complications after gynecological operations, use an intravenous solution or tablets at a dosage of 500 mg/day (2 tablets or 1 bottle).

Combination with antifungal agents

Since Metronidazole has no effect on the causative agent of candidiasis, when treating infections of the female genital tract it is combined with antifungal drugs, most often Fluconazole. This combination is justified both for recurrent thrush due to bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, and for the prevention of candidiasis in the treatment of STDs. Also, this combination of drugs is used to prevent bacterial and fungal complications after gynecological operations.

Before taking Metronidazole for thrush, you should work with your doctor to select the most suitable dosage form. Most often, Fluconazole in tablets is combined with Metronidazole in suppositories or suppositories and tablets (for trichomoniasis). The dosage depends on the patient’s condition and the duration of the disease.

Possible complications

When using the solution at the injection site, thrombophlebitis (inflammation of nearby subcutaneous vessels) rarely (1-2%) occurs, which is accompanied by swelling, redness, and pain.

A long course of treatment with Metronidazole can also cause thrush. The effect of the drug is not selective; it suppresses the growth and development of any bacterial flora. This causes suppression of local immunity and the development of fungal infection (candidiasis).

When taking alcoholic beverages, ethanol-based medications, and Metronidazole, severe headaches, nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting appear.

The drug may cause a false positive Nelson-Meyer test for syphilis.

Oral candidiasis caused by taking antibacterial agents against a background of reduced immunity