Flagyl ER – Extended‑Release Metronidazole Overview

When you hear Flagyl ER, the extended‑release tablet form of metronidazole used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections. Also known as metronidazole ER, it provides a slower, steady release of the drug over a 12‑hour period, making once‑daily dosing possible for many conditions.

The active ingredient behind Flagyl ER is Metronidazole, a nitroimidazole antibiotic that disrupts DNA synthesis in anaerobic microbes. Because it belongs to the Antibiotic, a drug class that kills or stops the growth of bacteria and certain parasites family, Flagyl ER is effective against a wide range of organisms that thrive in low‑oxygen environments. The extended‑release matrix allows the medicine to stay in the bloodstream longer, which improves compliance and often reduces side‑effects compared with immediate‑release tablets.

What Infections Does Flagyl ER Treat?

Flagyl ER is commonly prescribed for Protozoal infection, illnesses caused by single‑cell parasites such as Trichomonas vaginalis or Giardia lamblia and for anaerobic bacterial infections like bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain intra‑abdominal abscesses. The drug’s ability to penetrate deep tissue makes it a go‑to option for dental infections, skin and soft‑tissue wounds, and post‑surgical prophylaxis when anaerobes are a concern. In each case, the extended‑release formulation helps maintain therapeutic levels without the need for multiple daily doses.

Safety matters, so dosing must be adjusted for liver disease, renal impairment, or in patients taking alcohol‑interacting drugs. Common side‑effects include nausea, metallic taste, and occasional headache, while rare reactions can involve neurologic symptoms or severe skin rashes. As you read on, you’ll find articles that dive into related topics—like how genetics can affect parasite susceptibility, how other antibiotics compare to metronidazole, and practical tips for managing medication side‑effects. This collection gives you a well‑rounded view of the drugs and conditions that sit alongside Flagyl ER, helping you make informed decisions about your treatment plan.