Metronidazole 0.2% and Dextrose 5% w/v Injection is a parenteral formulation combining an antimicrobial agent (metronidazole) with a sugar solution (dextrose) used to treat anaerobic bacterial infections while providing fluid and caloric support.

Here are the key details:

1. Composition and Form

• Metronidazole: 0.2% w/v (active antimicrobial).

• Dextrose: 5% w/v (provides energy and acts as a diluent).

• Supplied as a sterile intravenous (IV) solution in ready-to-use vials or bags.

• Administered intravenously under hospital supervision.

2. Mechanism of Action

• Metronidazole:

  • Penetrates anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.

  • Reduced by intracellular electron transport proteins to active metabolites, which bind to DNA → inhibit nucleic acid synthesis → cell death.

  • Primarily bactericidal against anaerobic bacteria.

• Dextrose 5%:

  • Provides caloric support (50 g/L).

  • Acts as a vehicle for IV administration and helps maintain hydration.

3. Indications

• Anaerobic bacterial infections, including:

  • Intra-abdominal infections (peritonitis, abscesses).

  • Gynecological infections (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease).

  • Skin and soft tissue infections with anaerobic involvement.

• Used when oral administration is not feasible or rapid systemic action is required.

4. Administration

• IV infusion: slow administration over 30–60 minutes to reduce local irritation.

• Dose depends on patient’s age, weight, and severity of infection.

• Typically administered in hospital settings with monitoring of vital signs.

5. Side Effects

Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

• Headache, dizziness.

• Local irritation or phlebitis at infusion site.

Less common / serious:

• Neurotoxicity: peripheral neuropathy, seizures (rare, usually prolonged therapy).

• Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, urticaria, rarely anaphylaxis.

• Metallic taste.

• Rare liver enzyme elevations or jaundice.

6. Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.

• First trimester of pregnancy (use only if benefits outweigh risks).

• Severe hepatic impairment (use caution).

7. Precautions

• Monitor renal and liver function during prolonged therapy.

• Ensure adequate hydration.

• Avoid alcohol during therapy and for at least 48 hours after the last dose (risk of disulfiram-like reaction).

• Observe for signs of neurotoxicity during extended treatment courses.

8. Storage

• Store at controlled room temperature, protected from light.

• Use aseptically; discard any unused portion after opening.