Metronidazole+chlorhexidine
About
Metronidazole+chlorhexidine belongs to the class of medication called oral topical antimicrobial agents primarily used for the treatment of gum diseases like gum inflammation (gingivitis) and prevention of dental plaque. Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum caused by bacteria, if left untreated can lead to periodontitis(gum infection that damages gums and can destroy the jawbone). This can cause the gum to separate from teeth leading to loss of teeth.
Metronidazole+chlorhexidine contains two medicines, namely: Metronidazole (an antibiotic) and Chlorhexidine (an antiseptic and preservative). Metronidazole+chlorhexidine kills oral bacteria that cause plaque and forms a protective antibacterial layer over gums and teeth for the prevention of plaque formation. As a result, it helps in maintaining good oral and dental hygiene.
Your doctor will decide the dose depending on the type of infection that is being treated. The most common side effects of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine are metallic taste, bitter taste, burning, transient redness, irritation, dryness, and staining of teeth. If these side effects are persistent and bothersome, please see your doctor.
Please inform your doctor before using Metronidazole+chlorhexidine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid intake of alcohol while having treatment with Metronidazole+chlorhexidine as it may affect the working of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine. Maintain good oral hygiene and brush at least 2 times a day to avoid any oral infection and its spread. Do not rinse the mouth or drink or eat anything for 30 minutes after applying Metronidazole+chlorhexidine.
Uses of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine
Medicinal Benefits
Metronidazole+chlorhexidine is a combination medication containing Metronidazole (an antibiotic) and Chlorhexidine (an antiseptic). Metronidazole+chlorhexidine is primarily used in treating mouth infections. When microorganisms overgrow the otherwise normally present mouth, it can lead to unpleasant symptoms like mouth sores or ulcers, swollen gums, unpleasant taste changes and suggestive mouth infection. Chlorhexidine, which also acts as a preservative, helps by binding to the inner surface of teeth, cheeks, and metronidazole, being bactericidal in nature kills the bacteria by damaging its DNA and preventing these bacteria's growth spread hence relieving the symptoms. As a result, good oral hygiene is maintained and it is easier to go out and perform daily activities.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine
- Metallic taste
- Bitter taste
- Burning
- Transient redness
- Irritation
- Dryness
- Staining of teeth
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Please inform your doctor before using Metronidazole+chlorhexidine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid intake of alcohol while having treatment with Metronidazole+chlorhexidine as it may affect the working of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine. Maintain good oral hygiene and brush at least 2 times a day to avoid any oral infection and its spread. Do not rinse the mouth or drink or eat anything for 30 minutes after applying Metronidazole+chlorhexidine. Metronidazole+chlorhexidine may cause staining; it can be reduced by reducing the consumption of tea, coffee, and red wine and brushing with toothpaste daily before using the gel.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Metronidazole+chlorhexidine may interact with blood clotting medicines (coumarins, warfarin), drugs to treat alcohol addiction (disulfiram), and stomach ulcer treating medicines (cimetidine).
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions were found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: No interactions were found.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionPlease consult your doctor for more information on consuming alcohol while being treated with Metronidazole+chlorhexidine.
Pregnancy
cautionMetronidazole+chlorhexidine should be used during pregnancy only when prescribed by the doctor. Please consult your doctor before taking Metronidazole+chlorhexidine if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
Breast Feeding
cautionPlease consult your doctor before taking Metronidazole+chlorhexidine if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
safe if prescribedMetronidazole+chlorhexidine usually does not interfere with your driving ability.
Liver
safe if prescribedMetronidazole+chlorhexidine can be given in case of any liver impairment or problem.
Kidney
safe if prescribedMetronidazole+chlorhexidine can be given in case of any kidney impairment or problem.
Children
cautionChildren below the age of 12 years should not use Metronidazole+chlorhexidine. In children above the age of 12 years, Metronidazole+chlorhexidine should be taken only if prescribed by a child specialist.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection from spreading.
- Regular dental check-ups can help prevent the progression of cavities.
- Get your teeth cleaned by a dental professional every six months.
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing your teeth once a day help removes plaque and bacteria from the teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to control plaque formation.
- Avoid tobacco products and alcohol consumption.
- Limit sugary and starch foods.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Gingivitis: It is a periodontal or gum disease with swollen and bleeding gums which can be caused due to various bacteria. If left untreated can lead to periodontitis and eventually loss of teeth. Its signs and symptoms include bleeding from gums, swollen gums, a loose tooth and sometimes foul oral smell. Fusobacterium, Lachnospiraceae, Lautropia, Prevotella oulorum and Rothia dentocariosa are some of the bacterias which cause dental and gum problems.
FAQs
Metronidazole+chlorhexidine contains Metronidazole and Chlorhexidine. It kills oral bacteria that cause plaque and forms a protective antibacterial layer over gums and teeth for the prevention of plaque formation. As a result, it helps in maintaining good oral and dental hygiene.
Metronidazole+chlorhexidine may cause staining of teeth if taken for a prolonged time. So, it is advised to take it for a short duration as it is short-term medication.
A bitter taste may be one of the side effects of Metronidazole+chlorhexidine. It is temporary and usually gets resolved after you stop using the medicine.
Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. floss your teeth once a day to remove the plaque between your teeth. Do not skip your dental appointments and always use the medications as prescribed. Limit smoking and chewing tobacco. Having a professional dental cleaning twice a year can effectively manage and prevent various gum diseases.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and follow your usual dosage.
