Flagyl Syrup Uses

Flagyl syrup is an antibiotic medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as nitroimidazoles. It is primarily used to treat infections caused by bacteria and certain parasites. The following are some common uses and indications of Flagyl Syrup:

1. Bacterial Infections: The use of Flagyl syrup is effective against certain types of bacterial infections, such as abdominal infections, gynecological infections, skin and soft tissue infections, dental infections, and respiratory tract infections.
2. Protozoal Infections: Flagyl syrup is widely used to treat protozoal infections caused by parasites, including amoebiasis (caused by Entamoeba histolytica), trichomoniasis (caused by Trichomonas vaginalis), giardiasis (caused by Giardia lamblia), and certain forms of infections caused by the parasite called Blastocystis hominis.
3. Helicobacter pylori Infection: Flagyl is often prescribed as part of combination therapy to treat Helicobacter pylori infection, a bacterial infection that can cause stomach ulcers and gastritis.
4. Bacterial Vaginosis: Flagyl syrup may be used to treat bacterial vaginosis, an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina that can cause itching, discharge, and discomfort.
5. Dental Infections: Flagyl syrup can be used to treat dental infections, such as gum infections (gingivitis) or infections following dental procedures.

Off-label Uses of Flagyl Syrup

1. Clostridium Difficile Infection: Flagyl syrup may be used off-label to treat Clostridium difficile infection, a type of bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea and colitis. However, the choice of antibiotics for this infection may vary, and Flagyl may not be the first-line treatment in all cases.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis Recurrence: In cases of recurrent bacterial vaginosis, where the infection keeps coming back after treatment, Flagyl syrup may be used off-label as a maintenance therapy to help prevent further recurrences.
3. Helicobacter pylori Eradication: While the use of Flagyl syrup in combination therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection is an approved indication, the specific combination regimens may vary, and the use of Flagyl syrup in certain combinations may be considered off-label.

Flagyl syrup is one of the leading brands of Metronidazole in oral liquid form, manufactured and marketed by Sanofi Aventis (Pakistan) Ltd.

The following are some alternative brands of Flagyl syrup and their manufacturers.

• Metrozine : Searle Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Klint : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Riam : Stanley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Metrida : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Amezole : Ferozsons Laboratories Ltd. Pakistan.
• Flezole : Pearl Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Amogyl : Davis Pharmaceutical Laboratories, Pakistan.
• Ascozole : Asian Continental (Pvt) Company, Pakistan.
• Diagyl : Swiss Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Menidazole : Werrick Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.

Presently, Flagyl is available in Syrup, Tablets, and Infusion forms.

Flagyl Syrup (60ml) : 200mg/5ml strength.

Flagyl Tablet : 200mg and 400mg strengths.

Flagyl Infusion : 500mg/100ml strength.

Flagyl syrup has certain contraindications, meaning there are circumstances in which its use is not recommended or should be avoided.

Hypersensitivity: If an individual has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Flagyl or any of the ingredients in the syrup, its use should be avoided. Allergic reactions to Flagyl can range from mild skin rashes to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Blood Disorders: Flagyl can affect blood cells and may cause or worsen certain blood disorders. It is generally contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood disorders such as low white blood cell count (leukopenia), low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), or a history of blood dyscrasias.

Central Nervous System Disorders: Flagyl can cross the blood-brain barrier and may cause or worsen certain central nervous system disorders. It is contraindicated in individuals with a history of seizures or disorders affecting the central nervous system, such as epilepsy.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Flagyl syrup during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. It is generally contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy and should be used with caution during later stages of pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance in these situations.

Alcohol Consumption: Flagyl can cause a disulfiram-like reaction when taken with alcohol. This reaction can result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, flushing, and rapid heart rate. Therefore, individuals should avoid consuming alcohol while taking Flagyl and for at least 48 hours after the completion of treatment.

Flagyl Syrup Dose for Bacterial Infections:

For Children over 8 weeks and up to 12 years of age:

• 7.5 mg to 15 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into three to four equal doses.
• The duration of treatment is usually 7 days.

For Adults and Children 12 years Above:

• 500 mg to 750 mg taken orally three times a day.
• The total daily dose may vary depending on the specific infection and its severity.

Flagyl Syrup Dose for Protozoal Infections (amoebiasis, trichomoniasis, and giardiasis):

For Adults and Children 12 years Above:

• The recommended dose of metronidazole syrup is usually higher.
• 1.5 grams per day, divided into three equal doses.

For Children (Under 12 years of age):

• The dose is based on body weight, with a typical range of 35 to 50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into three equal doses.

Flagyl is an antibiotic medication that works by inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria and parasites. Its mode of action involves several mechanisms:

Disruption of DNA and protein synthesis: Flagyl enters bacterial and protozoal cells and is reduced by enzymes within these cells. Then interacts with DNA and disrupts its structure and function, leading to inhibition of DNA replication and protein synthesis. This disruption ultimately results in the death or inhibition of the microorganism.

Generation of reactive oxygen species: Flagyl can also generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) within bacterial and protozoal cells. These ROS can cause oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and other cellular components, leading to cell death or inhibition of growth.

Selective toxicity: Flagyl exhibits selective toxicity, meaning it specifically targets and affects anaerobic microorganisms that can survive and grow in the absence of oxygen. Anaerobic bacteria and parasites often lack the enzymes needed to efficiently metabolize and eliminate Flagyl, making them more susceptible to its effects.

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