
Bacterial infections and parasites can cause more harm and can bring down your productivity levels. Drugs belonging to a class of meds known as antibiotics are used for treating such infectious conditions. In this light, meds like metronidazole are largely used for arresting the further spread and growth of bacteria. It may however have very limited effect on viral infections such as flu or cold. But, how effective is this drug when taken along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen? It becomes essential to know more on this prior to starting your treatment.
Infections caused by bacteria or parasites can show up on your skin, joints, bones or a few other parts. A class of drugs known as nitroimidazole antimicrobial drugs are largely used for controlling the spread of bacterial infections. Metronidazole is a key member of this genre of drugs; it is also used for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases such as vaginosis – triggered by an imbalance of bacteria in your vagina. Not stopping with such infections, it is also prescribed for infections caused by strands of H. pylori or to treat prophylaxis, infections developing off wounds, etc.
Metronidazole may cause a few side effects. Common discomforts experienced soon after taking this med include difficulties to discharge stool (also known as constipation), itchiness, rashes on skin, being dizzy, weak and depressed. Upon witnessing itchiness in your vagina or painful sexual intercourse, it is a safe practice to consult with your treating physician without much delay. The above mentioned list of side effects does not constitute a complete list of discomforts. Hence, it is likely to encounter a few reactions that are not listed here. If you are experiencing one or more such unknown side effects, talk to your doctor as quickly as you possibly can.
Can you take metronidazole along with ibuprofen or other painkillers?
Ibuprofen is a pain relieving drug which can bring about relief from different types of pains. It is found to be effective for the treatment of muscular pains, toothaches, migraines and / or headache. In some cases, people with joint pains due to autoimmune conditions such as arthritis have gained needful relief with the use of ibuprofen. You need to remember that ibuprofen belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The key task of this drug is to inhibit substances that cause inflammation or internal swelling.
Intake of these two drugs together
Metronidazole and ibuprofen are unlikely to interact adversely and it is generally considered safe to take these two drugs together. However, you must not take these meds through the self-medication route or as an over the counter medication. It is a wise thing to take a prescription from a qualified clinical professional and procure these drugs as per your treatment plan. Ibuprofen may cause a few side effects. You may encounter discomforts such as vomiting or nausea, discharge of watery stools as well as intense spells of dizziness. These side effects may go away on their own once your body is used to these doses. However, if one or more of these side effects persist for long, talk to your treating physician without much delay.
Users may encounter renal problems with the continued use of drugs such as naproxen or ibuprofen. So, if you witness discoloration of urine, painful spells of urination or if you are frequently feeling dehydrated, you must talk to your treating doctor about these symptoms. In some cases, users have sensed a marked drop in the quantum of urine discharged. Such signs must also be discussed with your caregiving team.
Pointers to stay aware of while taking metronidazole
It is important to tell your treating physician if you have any prior hypersensitivity or allergies to this drug (or its active ingredients). Those who are currently living with hepatic problems (such as cirrhosis of liver or hepatitis), erratic heartbeats, etc. must seek safer alternatives. Also, users with blood cell deficits, either red blood cells (a condition known as anemia) or deficiency of white cells must also take added precautions. It is unsafe to use this drug when you are pregnant, especially during the first trimester. Women who are using this drug and are planning to get pregnant must use needful birth control measures.
It is not safe to take alcohol while you are taking metronidazole. Those who mixed alcoholic drinks or meds that contain alcohol along with this drug experienced a tingling sensation underneath the skin, cramping of muscles, abdominal problems such as nausea, vomiting and indigestion. Those who are taking this drug to treat sexually transmitted diseases must tell their partner also to take this med. The typical dose is up to 9 days on a continuous mode. In some cases, the dosage plan is repeated after a few weeks. You may be advised to continue with your dosage plan all through the duration; discontinuing the doses in an untimely manner may make the microbes to turn resistant. Soon, such drug-resistant microbes may work up another spell of infection.
Other safety precautions
On a related note, ibuprofen is likely to make you more sensitive to sunlight. It is hence a good practice to use sunscreen lotion or a cream before stepping out of your home. It is equally safe to keep away from sun lamps or tan booths. Your doctor may advise you to wear protective garments such as gloves and hats when you are staying outdoors for long. Last but not least, make a list of all other medications that you are currently taking. While you make this list, ensure to add over the counter meds, prescription drugs, proteins, vitamin supplements, herbal drugs and dietary aids as part of your listing. Once having shared the list, never make changes to it without the consent of your caregiving team.
In sum, metronidazole is an active member of a family of drugs known as nitroimidazole antimicrobial meds. It is widely used in the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases like vaginosis – which is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vaginal tract. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for managing different kinds of pain. It is effective against toothaches, headache, migraine, arthritis as well as joint pains. This NSAID essentially inhibits chemicals that cause internal swelling. Metronidazole and ibuprofen do not interact with each other in an adverse manner. However, if you witness side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, dizziness, etc., consult with your caregiving team for needful clinical support.