Description and indication for use
Metronidazole is an antimicrobial effective
in-vitro against several species of anaerobic bacteria. It is inactive against aerobic and
facultative anaerobic bacteria.
It is used in established bowel
obstruction, perforation, peritonitis, and necrotising enterocolitis.
Dose
IV:
|
Loading dose
|
15 mg/kg
|
|
Maintenance
|
7.5 mg/kg
|
|
VLBW
|
Daily
|
|
Term
|
|
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Week 1 to 4
|
12 hourly
|
|
Week 4 and over
|
8 hourly
|
Preterm
maintenance dose starts 24 hours after loading dose.
Term maintenance dose 12 hours after
loading dose.
NOTE: 15 mg/kg of Metronidazole
also gives 0.4 mmol/kg of sodium.
Reconstitution/Dilution
Vial = 500 mg in 100 mL.
IV:
Withdraw required dose from IV vial. No further dilution required.
Not for IM use.
Route and method of administration
IV:
Loading dose to be given over 1 hour. Maintenance doses can be given over 20
minutes.
Side effects
Gastrointestinal tract disturbances.
Candidiasis.
Thrombophlebitis at injection site.
Rash, flushing.
Nasal congestion, dry mouth.
Red-brown discoloration of urine.
Neutropenia, eosinophilia, blood dyscrasias.
Special precautions
CAUTION in patients with renal or hepatic impairment as dosage adjustment
may be necessary.
Compatible Solutions
Fluids:
Glucose 5%, Sodium Chloride 0.9%.
Drugs:
Amikacin, Aminophylline, Benzylpenicillin, Cefotaxime,
Ciprofloxacin, Fluconazole, Flucloxacillin, Gentamicin, Heparin, Hydrocortisone,
Tobramycin.
Compatible with the following drugs when infused via Y-site:
Aciclovir, Amiodarone, Fluconazole, Fentanyl,
Magnesium Sulphate, Morphine.