Identification of Metronidazole – Drug Interactions at the Outpatient Setting in Alkharj
Nehad J. Ahmad *
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Metronidazole is an antibacterial, antiprotozoal and amebicidal agent. It has a good activity against pathogenic anaerobic bacteria, low cost, minor adverse effects and a favorable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties but still it interacts with many drugs.
Objective: This study aims to assess the interactions of metronidazole with other drugs at the outpatient setting in Alkharj.
Methodology: This is a retrospective study include revision of the electronic records in the outpatient setting in a public hospital in Alkharj in order to determine the incidence of interactions between metronidazole and other drugs in 2017.
Results: In the present study, the concurrent use of metronidazole with azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, domperidone, formoterol and olanzapine may result in increased risk of QT-interval prolongation and arrhythmias. The use of metronidazole with warfarin may result in increased risk of bleeding.
Conclusion: To dispense and prescribe it appropriately antimicrobial stewardship program should be implemented and checking practice should be implemented to avoid the occurrence of Drug - drug interactions.
Keywords: Adverse reaction, antibiotics, drug interactions, metronidazole