Flagyl (metronidazole) is most commonly used as an antibiotic, but is also an effective antiprotozoal and amebicide. It may be used by itself, but is very commonly used along with other medications to treat a wide variety of conditions:

• Anaerobic infections
• Bacterial vaginosis
• Peptic ulcers
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Malodorous fungating wounds
• Pseudomembranous Colitis
• Clostridium difficile
• Amoebiasis
• Giardiasis
• Rosacea
• Trichomoniasis
• Crohn's disease

It may also be used to prevent infection (prophylaxis) in surgery where there is a risk of spreading contamination, such as removal of an infected appendix.

Note that in all cases the medication is only effective against certain types of infections, though symptoms may appear very similar; patients should not by Flagyl to treat an unidentified infection.

Using Flagyl

Outside of a hospital, where the medication is usually administered by IV, the most common delivery route is by tablet. For topical administration, such as to treat rosacea or some vaginal infections, patients should buy Flagyl in gel or cream form.

Given the range of conditions Flagyl is used to treat, and the common co-administration of other medications, it's difficult to summarize treatment beyond rough guidelines:

• Anaerobic bacterial infections - 500 mg every 6 hours for 7 to 10 days.
• Bacterial vaginosis - 500 mg 2 times per day for 5 to 7 days.
• Peptic ulcers - 500 mg 2 times per day for 7 days.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease - 500 mg 2 times day for 14 days.
• Malodorous fungating wounds - Apply gel as-needed for odor.
• Pseudomembranous Colitis - 500 mg 3 or 4 times per day for 10 to 14 days.
• Clostridium difficile - 500 mg 3 or 4 times per day for 10 to 14 days.
• Amoebiasis - 750 mg 3 times per day for 5 to 10 days.
• Giardiasis - 250 mg 3 times per day for 5 days.
• Rosacea - Apply gel once or twice per day.
• Trichomoniasis - 250 mg 3 times per day for 7 days.
• Crohn's disease - 250 mg every 6 hours for 4 weeks to 6 months.

As with all antibiotics, treatment should be completed even if symptoms disappear. Stopping early can cause the infection to resurface and contributes to resistant bacteria. Taking each dose at the same time each day will help maximize effects, as it keeps levels of the medication more consistent.

Tablets may be taken with or without food, according to preference. If stomach upset occurs after taking tablets, eating may help.

Before you Buy Flagyl

Some individuals are poor candidates for this medication. Do not buy Flagyl without first carefully discussing risks with a doctor if you have:

• A history of blood disorders
• Any neurological disorders
• Underactive thyroid or adrenal glands

Otherwise, side effects are rare -- but they do happen. Most are mild and typical of any medication, such as headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, appetite changes and dry mouth.

Very rarely more serious side effects may be experienced, which should be brought to the attention of a doctor. Warning signs to be alert for include:

• Jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, clay-colored stools)
• Stiff neck, severe headache, any unexplained pain
• Light sensitivity, seizures, loss of coordination
• Tingling, pain, numbness or weakness in extremities

Flagyl may interact with a range of other medications, including other treatments prescribed to treat the same condition, which may complicate side effects. A doctor or pharmacist can explain in more detail according to the exact combination of medications being taken.

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Clients are not required to have a current prescription to buy Flagyl from Kiwi Drug. You may need to answer some additional questions for our online doctor before entering payment information.