In the pharmaceutical industry, Metronidazole 250 mg is a highly effective nitroimidazole antimicrobial. As a pharmacist and manufacturer, I classify this molecule as a “dual-threat” agent because it possesses both potent antibacterial properties against anaerobes and significant antiprotozoal activity.
Primary Clinical Uses
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Amoebiasis & Giardiasis: Treatment of intestinal and extra-intestinal infections caused by Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia.
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Trichomoniasis: A first-line treatment for this common parasitic sexually transmitted infection (STI).
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Anaerobic Bacterial Infections: Used for intra-abdominal infections, skin/skin structure infections, and bone/joint infections caused by Gram-negative anaerobic bacilli like Bacteroides fragilis.
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Dental Infections: Highly effective for acute dental abscesses, infected gums (ANUG), and pericoronitis.
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H. pylori Eradication: Often part of a “triple therapy” regimen to treat stomach ulcers.
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Bacterial Vaginosis: A standard treatment for resolving vaginal flora imbalances.
Mechanism of Action: DNA Fragmentation
Metronidazole is a prodrug that is selectively activated within the target organism.
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Selective Reduction: The nitro group of Metronidazole is reduced by the electron transport proteins (like ferredoxin) found only in anaerobic organisms.
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Formation of Reactive Radicals: This reduction creates highly unstable, short-lived toxic intermediate compounds and free radicals.
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DNA Disruption: These radicals attack the microbial DNA, causing strand breakage and loss of helical structure.
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Bactericidal Effect: The damage to the DNA inhibits nucleic acid synthesis, leading to rapid cell death of the pathogen.
The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Technical & Export
From a production and global trade standpoint, Metronidazole 250 mg is a high-volume “Essential Medicine”:
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The “Metallic Taste” Challenge: Metronidazole has a distinctively bitter, metallic taste. As a WHO-GMP manufacturer, we often utilize specialized film-coating to mask this taste, improving patient compliance—a major selling point for your B2B clients.
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Drug-Alcohol Interaction: As a pharmacist, you know the importance of the Disulfiram-like reaction. We ensure our Product Information Leaflet (PIL) and packaging carry clear warnings against alcohol consumption during treatment.
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Stability for Global Trade: Metronidazole is relatively stable but light-sensitive. At our Mumbai facility, we utilize opaque PVC/PVDC or Alu-Alu blister packaging to ensure a 36-month shelf life for export to Zone IVb regions.
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B2B & Dossier Support: This is a staple for general practitioners and dental clinics. We provide full CTD/eCTD Dossiers to support international registration against the innovator (Flagyl).