Oral Dose for Amebic Infections
For amebic dysentery, the recommended
metronidazole dose is 750 mg three times a day for 5 to 10 days. For an amebic liver abscess, the recommended dose is 250 to 500 mg three times daily for 5 to 10 days. For treating amebic infections in children, your child's healthcare provider will calculate an appropriate amount based on your child's weight.
Oral or Vaginal Dosages for Bacterial Vaginosis
Metronidazole vaginal gel and long-acting oral tablets are both approved for treating
bacterial vaginosis. The recommended dose for the oral version is metronidazole extended-release 750 mg once daily for seven days. Regular, short-acting
metronidazole tablets and capsules are not approved for this use.
The vaginal cream is applied once or twice daily for five days. If you use it just once a day, the dose should be applied just before bedtime.
Topical Metronidazole Dosing for Rosacea
The recommended dosage for metronidazole skin products for
rosacea treatment is a thin layer applied once or twice a day (depending on the particular product). Wash the area with a mild cleanser before application. You may use cosmetics after applying metronidazole skin products.
General Information on Your Metronidazole Dosage
Considerations for people taking metronidazole include the following:
- This medication comes in several different forms. The particular directions for each product can vary substantially, so be sure to refer to the information for your specific medication.
- You can take regular, short-acting metronidazole tablets or capsules with food or on an empty stomach. However, long-acting, extended-release metronidazole tablets must be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not miss doses or stop taking this antibiotic earlier than your healthcare provider recommends, as bacterial resistance may develop.
- If you are unsure about anything related to your metronidazole dosage, please talk with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the drug without first consulting your healthcare provider.