Hi,

My specilist has prescribed METRONIDAZOLE 400mg three times a day until May 2010. I looked this up on the internet and it seems there are some nasty side effects if taken long term. My pharmasist had never heard this being given for Crohns before and was a little reluctlant to give me it to start with.

Has anyone aken this drug or has any info on it....yes I do know I waill have to give up any forms of alcohol....!!!

Thanks

David

Hi mate,nice to hear from you again.Dont know it at all,be careful.




regards Dave.

Hi David,

I have had some experience of this drug. It is used routinely following bowel surgery and for some bowel infections, I think it is also used for dental infections. I think it is like all drugs, there are always side-effects and as long as you are vigilant and listen to your body, you should be ok. I have to say, I have never know it to be used for such a long period of time and would question the rationale for this. Hope this helps.

Mary

Hello,

Im currently on metronidazole but due to come off of it next couple of days. It has taken me a couple of weeks to get to grips with it, I have had 0 appetite and was pretty sick from it for a couple of days. Maybe if you have trouble with it ask for something to combat the sickness and nausea, I did and they prescribed me cyclozine and after a few days of this I got used to it. It also made my urine look like cheap coco cola! And gave me a bitter taste in my mouth. Looking forward to being off of it because I just do not feel right but cant put my finger on why.
Originally I was on it because of a suspected anal fissure that just wouldnt heal but I actually had a perianal abcsess so have stayed on this to help heel my wound after surgery. I know its a really good drug to be on if you have problems with your colon and generally your bottom end.
Its just getting used to the drug that was the problem and that took less than a week for me. Hope its problem free for you! let me know how you get on.

Lucy

Hi

I've only been on it for a week but not really experienced many side effects except the loss of appetite.  Does seem to have stopped the pain though - I have a suspected abscess.

Best of luck.

Lou

Hi and many thanks for your replies,

Just one quick question....how long were you on this drug for ? Im just a little concerned that being on them for 9 months seems a long time.

Once again many thanks it was interesting to read how this drug has effected you all.

David

hi davie, i was put on this after surgery, but only for a week! i understand it has to be closely monitored, and not used in the long term, thats all i know my friend, let us know how you get on,

be good

chasa

ps is it  methotrexate or metronidazole

Hi Chasa,

Thanks for your reply Its METRONIDAZOLE also known as FLAGYL. I still havent started taking it yet,everything I have read regarding this drug seems to indicate that it is taken for around 2 weeks,havent read anyone taking it for 5 MONTHS !!!!

Tried to contact my Crohns specialist but he is away. I think its just getting up the nerve and confidence to start taking it,Ive had enough of feeling c**p and dont want this drug to make me feel worse. My only real concern is why I have been prescribed it for such a long time .

Thanks again and will let you know how it all goes.

David

alright davie, my wife has never known it to be prescribed long term (she a staff nurse) hope they got it right buddy, you should be getting regular blood tests, yes? have you contacted the cons office, they might be able to put your mind at rest, i know mine are on the ball if my cons not around

chasa

ps. davie  just read a short study note (wiley health) on mets; patience with crohns being treated for four months where found to be in remission one year after treatment, hope this was of use to you friend

regards

chasa

Hi chasa,

Thanks for the info....ive got enough of the meds to take till May 2010....re checked the perscription also.
I have not been told about having regular blood tests....what are they for ?

Think I might make appt with GP to find out more.

Cheers mate

David

Antibiotics are used frequently for IBD. They are believed to reduce intestinal bacteria (the bad kind) and suppress the intestine's immune system.

  Flagyl was at one time the most commonly used antibiotic for Crohn's disease, but it can sometimes cause serious side effects, including numbness and tingling in your hands and feet and, occasionally, muscle pain or weakness.

Other side effects include nausea, a metallic taste in your mouth, headache and loss of appetite. You should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.  If you experience any of the side effects you may want to get in touch with your medical provider.  

Hope you do well.  

Crohnsproof

I was on Metronidazole for years before I developed any side effects. I did develop the metallic taste,numbness in my hands and feet. I also made the mistake of having an alcoholic drink one night and within an hour of the drink I felt like I had a massive hangover-severe headache and feeling sick!