Metronidazole vaginal gel is primarily used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis and other anaerobic bacteria. BV is characterized by symptoms like abnormal vaginal discharge with a fishy odor and a vaginal pH greater than 4.5
Mechanism of Action
Metronidazole works by killing certain types of bacteria through damaging their DNA, which inhibits bacterial replication and leads to bacterial cell death
Indications
- Treatment of bacterial vaginosis in post-menarchal females
- It is not indicated for infections caused by other pathogens like Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, or Candida albicans, which should be ruled out before treatment
Dosage Forms and Administration
- Available as vaginal gels with concentrations of 0.75% and 1.3%.
- Typically administered once daily at bedtime for 5 days (0.75% gel) or once daily for 1 to 5 days (1.3% gel), depending on the prescribed regimen
- Inserted intravaginally using an applicator provided with the medication
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Avoid freezing and excessive temperature variations during transport
Summary
Metronidazole vaginal gel is an antibiotic treatment for bacterial vaginosis, working by damaging bacterial DNA to eradicate the infection. It is used intravaginally in gel form, with typical treatment lasting 5 days, and requires proper storage and administration to ensure effectiveness
