Ornidazole
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ornidazole
Other Names
- Tiberal
- Dazolic
- Ornizid
Drug Class
- Antiprotozoal
- Antibacterial
Chemical Formula
C7H10ClN3O3S
Molecular Weight
219.7 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Ornidazole is a synthetic nitroimidazole derivative with antiprotozoal and antibacterial properties. It works by entering the microbial cell, where it interacts with DNA and causes damage, leading to cell death.
Indications
- Anaerobic bacterial infections
- Protozoal infections
- Trichomoniasis
- Amebiasis
- Giardiasis
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Suspension
Typical Dosage
- 500 mg orally twice a day for 5-10 days
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage varies based on weight and age. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosage adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing in the elderly.
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Dizziness
- Peripheral neuropathy
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to nitroimidazole compounds
- First-trimester pregnancy
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available. Consult a healthcare provider before use during lactation.
Drug Interactions
- Avoid alcohol during treatment with ornidazole as it may cause a disulfiram-like reaction
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Encephalopathy
Antidote for Overdose
- Symptomatic and supportive treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Widely distributed in tissues and body fluids
- Metabolism: Undergoes hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
- Monitor for neurological side effects
- Avoid use in the first trimester of pregnancy
Warnings
- May cause dizziness, caution when driving or operating machinery
Others
- Ornidazole is not recommended for use in children under 3 years of age.