Uses
Secnidazole is used to treat bacterial vaginosis (an infection caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina) in women. Secnidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Side Effects Of Secnidazole
Secnidazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- unpleasant or metallic taste
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- vaginal odor, white or yellowish vaginal discharge (may be lumpy or look like cottage cheese), or vaginal itching
- Medications similar to secnidazole can cause cancer in laboratory animals. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication.
Secnidazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking secnidazole:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to secnidazole, metronidazole (Flagyl), any other medications, talc, or any of the ingredients in secnidazole oral granules. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
- do not breastfeed for 4 days (96 hours) after taking your one-time dose of secnidazole.
Dosage Of Secnidazole
Secnidazole comes as granules to take by mouth. It is usually taken as a single dose as prepared, without regard to meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take secnidazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
To take the granules, open the packet by folding over the corner and tearing across the top. Sprinkle all of the granules in the packet onto a small amount of applesauce, yogurt, or pudding. The granules will not dissolve. Take all of the mixtures right away (within 30 minutes of preparation) without chewing or crushing the granules. After taking the mixture, you may drink a glass of water; however, do not mix the granules with water or other liquids.
Take all of the secnidazole granules at one time. If you take only part of the mixture and save it for later, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
