Metronidazole in Dental Infection Management

Metronidazole Overview

• Metronidazole is a synthetic antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent, chemically known as (l-β-hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole.
• It belongs to the nitroimidazole group, which includes related compounds like tinidazole.

Mechanism of Action

• Disrupts the DNA structure of bacteria and parasites, inhibiting their ability to multiply and survive.

Indications for Use in Dental Infections

• Effective for treating dental infections where anaerobic bacteria are implicated.
• Commonly prescribed for conditions like periodontal disease and oral abscesses.

Dosing and Administration

• Administered orally with approximately 80% bioavailability from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Dosage may vary based on the type and severity of the infection.

Side Effects and Drug Interactions

• Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, and a metallic taste.
• Potential drug interactions with alcohol (can cause disulfiram-like reactions) and anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk).

Comparison with Other Antibiotics

• Metronidazole is often compared to other antibiotics like amoxicillin and clindamycin in terms of efficacy against anaerobic bacteria.
• Distinct mechanism and spectrum of activity, making it a preferred choice in certain bacterial infections.

Role in Post-Surgical Infection Prevention

• Used prophylactically to reduce infection risks after dental surgery, particularly in procedures involving high bacterial load.
• Effective in combination with other antibiotics to provide broader coverage against potential pathogens.