Indications 

Metrogel Vaginal is a prescribed medication for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal condition marked by abnormal discharge caused by excessive growth of bacteria naturally present in the vagina. 

Classified as a nitroimidazole antimicrobial, Metro Vaginal functions by inhibiting bacterial growth. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Metrogel Vaginal and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or clarifications, seek guidance from your physician or pharmacist. 

Metrogel Vaginal should only be used inside the vagina and should not be applied to the eyes, skin or taken by mouth. 

Typically, this gel is administered intravaginally once or twice a day for 5 days. For once-daily dosing, apply the gel before going to bed.  

To properly use Metrogel Vaginal, follow these steps: 

1. Prior to application, wash your hands thoroughly. 
2. Fill the applicator with the gel until it is full. 
3. Find a comfortable position, lying on your back with your knees bent or in any other suitable position. 
4. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina, going as far as it comfortably goes. 
5. Slowly press the plunger until it stops dispensing the gel into the vagina, and then remove the applicator. 
6. If your physician has prescribed once-a-day dosing, you can discard the applicator after use. If it is prescribed twice-a-day dosing, follow these additional steps: 
   1. After the morning dose, detach the plunger from the barrel. 
   2. Wash the plunger and barrel with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow them to dry. 
   3. For the evening dose, reassemble the applicator by gently pushing the plunger back into the barrel and then repeat the application steps. 
7. Promptly wash your hands after each application to prevent the spread of infection. 

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. In the event of accidental exposure, rinse your eyes with cool water and consult your doctor if eye irritation persists. 

Complete the full prescribed course of Metrogel Vaginal, even if symptoms improve within a few days. Ceasing this medication prematurely could enable the growth of bacteria, leading to a recurrence of the infection. 

Inform your physician if your condition fails to improve within a few days or deteriorates. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Metrogel Vaginal. Notify your physician if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Stomach discomfort 
• Headache 
• Dizziness  

Serious Side Effects 

• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet 
• Seizures 

Stop using Metrogel Vaginal and call your doctor promptly if you experience any of the severe side effects mentioned above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Metrogel Vaginal may occur. Get prompt medical attention if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling, particularly of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Metrogel Vaginal. If you experience any unlisted effects, notify your doctor promptly.  

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Metrogel Vaginal, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to: 

• Metronidazole 
• Other nitroimidazole antibiotics (e.g., tinidazole) 
• Other medications 
• Any ingredients present in Metrogel Vaginal  

To ensure Metrogel Vaginal is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Nervous system disorders (e.g., seizures, numbness/tingling of the hands/feet)  
• Liver disease 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you currently use or intend to use. Specifically mention if you are taking anticoagulants like warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) or lithium (Lithobid). 

Avoid using Metrogel Vaginal if you have taken or are currently taking disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past two weeks. Disulfiram is prescribed to individuals with alcohol dependency and combining it with this medicine can lead to severe and undesirable effects. 

Avoid consuming alcohol or products containing alcohol or propylene glycol during the course of Metrogel Vaginal and for a minimum of three days after the last dose. The combination of this medication use with alcohol or propylene glycol may result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, headache, sweating, and facial flushing. 

Metrogel Vaginal can induce dizziness or lightheadedness in certain individuals. Refrain from operating vehicles or engaging in activities that may pose a risk until you understand the impact of this medication on your well-being. 

Inform laboratory personnel and all healthcare providers about your use of Metrogel Vaginal, as it may potentially interfere with specific laboratory tests, leading to inaccurate or false test results. 

The use of Metrogel Vaginal during pregnancy should be limited to cases where it is deemed necessary. Talk to your doctor to assess your condition. 

Consult with your physician before breastfeeding when using this medication, as it is uncertain if metronidazole transfers into the breast milk.