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Metronidazole

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Metronidazole is a synthetic antibacterial and antiprotazoal agent used in treating giardiasis, trichomoniasis, amoebiasis, balantidiasis and trypanosomiasis.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• If using the liquid form of this medication, shake well before measuring the dose and measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Give this medication for as long as prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears the pet is feeling better. This will help to ensure the infection is all cleared up.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Metronidazole base tablets are extremely bitter, do not crush these tablets.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store capsules and tablets in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential Side Effects

• This medication may cause drowsiness, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and neurological disorders (e.g. muscular incoordination, involuntary rapid movement of the eyeball, seizures, head tilt, slow hear rate, rigidity and stiffness).
• If your pet develops any neurological symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible Drug Interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving your pet.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with metronidazole: warfarin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, cimetidine, and alcohol.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.