Metronidazole CAS#443-48-1

Metronidazole, a nitroimidazole-class antibiotic also referred to as flagyl, is effective against anaerobic microorganisms. Its reduced metabolites in the human body exhibit similar anti-anaerobic properties by inhibiting bacterial DNA synthesis, consequently disrupting bacterial growth and leading to cell death. This antibiotic targets various anaerobic pathogens including: Bacteroides fragilis, Fusobacterium (characterized by its tapered, spindle-shaped morphology), Clostridium tetani, Peptococcus, Peptostreptococcus, and Giardia.

Initially developed for treating trichomoniasis with remarkable clinical efficacy, it was later discovered to be effective against oral anaerobic infections. Recognized by the World Health Organization in 1978 as the gold standard treatment for anaerobic infections, it has become widely used in managing oral anaerobic infections. In clinical settings, it is commonly employed to prevent and treat anaerobic infections affecting the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal system, abdominal/pelvic regions, skin, soft tissues, bones/joints, as well as more serious conditions like pericarditis, septicemia, and central nervous system infections.