Metronidazole (Generic)

What is Metronidazole?
Metronidazole is a prescription antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication. It is used for the treatment of many types of infections, including one-celled intestinal parasites such as Giardia, in a variety of animal species.

Who is it for?
Metronidazole is for multiple species including cats and dogs.

What are the benefits?

How does Metronidazole work?
Metronidazole kills susceptible bacteria and certain protozoa. It is believed to affect DNA synthesis in the organism.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Metronidazole is a generic.

How is it given?
Metronidazole is given by mouth. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Many of the conditions that require treatment with Metronidazole may require long-term treatment, in the order of multiple weeks.

What form(s) does it come in?
Tablet.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Flagyl

Pronunciation
Meh-tro-NYE-da-zoll

Common Drug Name
Metronidazole

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Metronidazole?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease or may be pregnant or used for breeding.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
Metronidazole may need to be given for extended periods of time to achieve satisfactory results. Notify your veterinarian if your pet has incoordination, depression, a head tilt, disorientation, seizures, or other neurological signs while taking Metronidazole. Metronidazole has an unpleasant taste; contact your veterinarian if you have difficulty giving the medication.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to the drug or its derivatives. Not for use in pregnant, or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young) unless benefits outweigh the risks. Use with extreme caution in debilitated animals or those with liver disease.

What side effects may be seen when taking Metronidazole?
If the pill has prolonged contact with the mouth or is crushed or chewed, it may cause excessive salivation and pawing at the mouth. Side effects include nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, blood in the urine, head tilt, and stumbling. It may also cause liver disease, which can result in yellowing of the gums, skin, and eyes. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any of these effects.

How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of an overdose would be similar to the side effects listed above, plus stiffness, seizures and disorientation.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Metronidazole?
Consult your veterinarian before using Metronidazole with any other medications including vitamins and supplements, oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), cimetidine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, sedatives or tranquilizers since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet for dog and cats or the Patient Information Sheet for horses on this medication.