15th March 2024

Metronidazole

This drug directly inhibits bacterial DNA, causing breakage and destabilisation. It has strong activity against protozoa and anaerobic bacteria, including Clostridium.

When taken with ethanol, it has been associated with the disulfiram-like reaction resulting in nausea, blurred vision, sweating and facial flushing. Metronidazole penetrates the blood-brain barrier and can rarely lead to neurotoxicity, presenting as poor balance, reduced GCS and seizures.