Metronidazole
METRONIDAZOLE
Overview
Metronidazole is an antibiotic effective against many infections caused by bacteria and parasites. It’s particularly useful in treating infections in the brain, reproductive system, gastro-intestinal tract, skin, vagina and other body parts.
Classification
Antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication
Uses
Metronidazole has been approved to treat:
Symptomatic trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection) in adults that has been confirmed by culture or wet smear test
Asymptomatic trichomoniasis in females when associated with cervical changes, and in asymptomatic sexual partners
Amebiasis (an infection caused by a parasite) in adults and children
Anaerobic bacterial infections (infections caused by bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive).
How it works
Metronidazole is thought to work by first diffusing into the cytoplasm of the anaerobic bacteria where it is then activated and reduced into a short-lived nitroso free radical which can interact with DNA, causing a loss of the helical DNA structure, strand breakage, and bacterial death.
Dosage
As directed by the physician
Precautions
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to metronidazole, secnidazole, or tinidazole, or if you:
Drank alcohol in the past 3 days
Consumed foods or medicines that contain propylene glycol in the past 3 days or
Took disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past 14 days
Have Cockayne Syndrome (a rare genetic disorder that affects growth and development).
Before taking metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Liver disease
Kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis)
A heart rhythm disorder
A stomach or intestinal disease such as Crohn’s disease
A blood cell disorder such as anemia (lack of red blood cells) or low white blood cell (WBC) counts
Medical problems that affect the brain or a nerve disorder
A yeast infection or a fungal infection anywhere in your body
A history of blood problems
Or take any medications, especially warfarin, lithium, busulfan, cimetidine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital
Side effects
Nausea, Vomiting, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Agitation, Back pain, Blindness, Blurred vision, Altered speech pattern, Confusion, Decreased vision, Depression, Dizziness, Impaired coordination, Seizure, Slurred speech
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.
Sodium Chloride
SODIUM CHLORIDE
Overview
Sodium chloride is simply salt — the same kind found in food. In medicine, it’s used to replace lost fluids and salts in the body. It helps keep the balance of water and minerals in your body.
Classification
Sodium chloride is a type of electrolyte (a mineral that helps your body stay hydrated and your cells work properly). It’s often found in IV fluids, saline solutions, and oral rehydration products.
Uses
To treat dehydration (loss of water and salt)
To restore fluid balance in the body during illness, surgery, or after sweating too much
Used in IV drips, nasal sprays, eye drops, and wound cleaning solutions
Helps in making other medicines and in lab tests
How It Works
Sodium chloride works by replacing salt and water your body has lost. It helps your muscles, nerves, and organs work properly by keeping the right fluid balance in your blood and tissues.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Thirst – You may feel more thirsty than usual.
Dry Mouth – A feeling of dryness in the mouth or throat.
Stomach Upset – Mild stomach pain, gas, or bloating.
Nausea – Feeling like you might vomit.
Swelling (Edema) – Puffiness in the hands, feet, or ankles due to water retention.
High Blood Pressure – Extra sodium in the body can raise blood pressure.
Breathing Problems – If too much fluid builds up in the lungs.
Muscle Twitching or Weakness – Due to salt imbalance.
Confusion or Seizures – In extreme cases of very high sodium levels (hypernatremia).
Precautions
Kidney or Heart Issues: If you have kidney problems or heart conditions like heart failure, too much sodium can make things worse by causing water retention (extra fluid in the body).
High Blood Pressure: Salt (sodium) can raise your blood pressure. If you already have high BP, be cautious with how much sodium chloride you use.
Salt-Sensitive People: Some people’s bodies react more strongly to salt. They may need smaller amounts.
During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Usually safe, but always check with your doctor before using high amounts.
Other Health Conditions: If you have liver problems, swelling (edema), or are on a low-salt diet, take sodium chloride only as advised by your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
