What it does
Satronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria and parasites.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, parasitic infections
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:25:42 · updated 2026-07-20 10:59:46
About this medicine
Satronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria and parasites.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- parasitic infections
How it works
It works by killing the bacteria and parasites that cause the infections.
Who it's for
It is for adults and children who have specific bacterial or parasitic infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: satronidazole
Satronidazole is an antimicrobial agent belonging to the nitroimidazole class, primarily used for the treatment of various protozoal and anaerobic bacterial infections. It exerts its effects by disrupting DNA synthesis in susceptible organisms, leading to cell death. It is often utilized in cases of amoebiasis, giardiasis, and certain bacterial infections, including those caused by Clostridium difficile.
Indications
- Amoebiasis
- Giardiasis
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Clostridium difficile infection
- Anaerobic bacterial infections
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific pediatric dosing guidelines, as it is essential to tailor doses based on age, weight, and clinical condition.
Adults: Refer to specific prescribing guidelines for adult dosing, as it may vary based on indication and severity of infection.
Mechanism of action
Satronidazole acts by entering microbial cells and undergoing reduction to form reactive intermediates that interact with DNA. This interaction causes strand breakage and inhibits nucleic acid synthesis, ultimately leading to microbial cell death.
Pharmacodynamics
Satronidazole exhibits bactericidal and antiprotozoal activity. It is effective against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa by disrupting their DNA synthesis. Its activity is concentration-dependent, meaning that higher concentrations may enhance its efficacy against susceptible organisms.
Pharmacokinetics
Satronidazole is well-absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours. It is widely distributed throughout body tissues and fluids, including the central nervous system. The drug undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily by oxidation and conjugation, and is excreted mainly in urine as metabolites. The elimination half-life is approximately 8 to 12 hours, depending on individual patient factors.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to satronidazole or any of its components
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Pregnancy during the first trimester
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Metallic taste
- Rash
- Neurotoxic effects (such as seizures)
Interactions
- Alcohol (may cause disulfiram-like reaction)
- Warfarin (may enhance anticoagulant effect)
- Other CNS depressants (may increase sedation)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Monitor liver function in patients with liver disease
- Caution in elderly patients, as they may be more sensitive to effects
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy should be avoided, particularly during the first trimester due to potential risks to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Use with caution while breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether satronidazole is excreted in human milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Injectable solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.