Antibiotics_Nitroimidazole

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of Nitroimidazoles?

Answer 1

-Inhibit DNA synthesis–>bactericidal

Question 2

What is the spectrum of Nitroimidazoles?

Answer 2

-Works specifically against anaerobes

Question 3

What is the main drug under the Nitroimidazole class?

Answer 3

Metronidazole

Question 4

What is the advantage of the nitroimidazole class?

Answer 4

Resistance isn’t much of a problem

Question 5

What are the main side effects/adverse reactions of metronidazole?

Answer 5

• Nausea, vomitting
• Diarrhoea, constipation
• Headache, dizziness
• Metallic taste

Question 6

What precaution must you take with metronidazole?

Answer 6

Reacts with alcohol
(inhibits acetaldehyde metabolism)
-Nausea, vomitting, flushing, shortness of breath

• Do NOT take alcohol until 72 hours after end of last dose
• Drug interactions with warfarin (metronidazole inhibits warfarin drug metabolism)