Bacterial Vaginosis treatment Zidoval Gel
What is Zidoval Gel?
Zidoval, a metronidazole vaginal gel, serves as an antibacterial gel applied to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). With a success rate of up to 91% in women, a 5-day course of metronidazole gel effectively clears BV. This antibiotic works by impeding the growth of the bacteria responsible for the infection.
What is Zidoval Gel used to treat?
Zidoval gel is an antibacterial medication, it works by eliminating various bacteria responsible for infections. Specifically used in adults, the gel treats vaginal infections, commonly known as bacterial vaginosis or BV. Administered internally, Zidoval gel targets and eradicates bacteria at the infection site. Complete treatment is crucial to prevent the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis, so it is essential to finish the full course prescribed by your doctor to ensure effective and lasting results.
Who can and cannot use medicines containing Zidoval Gel?
While most adult women can use metronidazole gel, there are some circumstances that need to be considered before using Zidoval.
Do not use Zidoval gel if:
you have allergies to nitroimidazole antibacterials, metronidazole, or any other of the listed ingredients
you are allergic to parabens, a preservative agent
You should discuss with your doctor before using Zidoval:
if you have ever had any blood problems or a disease affecting the blood
if you suspect or have vaginal thrush (candidiasis), as Zidoval gel may make symptoms more noticeable, requiring additional treatment
during your menstrual period
if you are having blood tests, as metronidazole may interfere with some test results
avoid prolonged and unnecessary use of the gel
For all vaginal infections, abstain from sexual intercourse during the infection and while using Zidoval gel.
Zidoval gel is not recommended for individuals under 18 years old or the elderly, as its safety in these age groups has not been established.
Other medications and Zidoval gel:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any current, recent, or potential future use of other medications. Zidoval gel may enhance the effects of the following medicines:
coumarin anticoagulants like warfarin, utilised for preventing blood clotting
lithium, a medication for mental health conditions
lyclosporin, a drug for treating autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis
5-fluorouracil, a medication addressing skin problems and cancer treatment
Zidoval gel and alcohol: Consuming alcohol while using Zidoval gel may lead to nausea, confusion, headaches, or an unusually fast heartbeat. If such reactions occur, cease alcohol consumption and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, suspect pregnancy, or are planning to conceive, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication.
When will Zidoval Gel start to work?
Metronidazole gel provides quick relief from BV and starts to resolve symptoms in 2 to 3 days. Even if your symptoms have cleared up, you must complete your entire course of treatment to make sure the infection is fully cleared. Otherwise, you may risk reinfection.
Frequently asked questions
Like all medications, Zidoval gel can lead to side effects, although not everyone may experience them.
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
Headache and dizziness
Stomach cramps
Vomiting
Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Unusual feeling on the tongue
Dry skin
Redness of the skin (erythema)
Skin itching (pruritus)
Skin discomfort (burning, pain of skin/stinging)
Skin irritation
Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
Vaginal discharge
Discomfort around the pelvis
Decreased appetite
Depression
Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
Nausea
Fatigue
Irritability
Difficulty sleeping
Unusual feeling in fingers and toes
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Bloated or gurgling stomach
Dry mouth or feeling thirsty
Metallic taste in the mouth
Muscle cramps
Darkened urine
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) causing pain or a burning sensation
Swelling of the vulva (outside of the vagina)
Changes in periods such as spotting or bleeding between periods or increased discomfort during menstruation
A serious allergic reaction can occur, and immediate medical attention is required. Symptoms include airway constriction, leading to breathing difficulties, swelling of the face and throat, skin reactions such as hives, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting. Cardiovascular effects may include a rapid pulse, a drop in blood pressure, and potential loss of consciousness. Anxiety or a feeling of impending doom may accompany these symptoms.
Always read the patient information leaflet for Zidoval gel before using it.
Zidoval gel contains 7.5mg of metronidazole per gram. The gel is colourless or straw-coloured and is packaged in a 40g aluminium tube with a screw-on plastic cap, all enclosed in a carton. Each carton includes 5 disposable vaginal applicators, each containing 5g of the gel for convenient use.
Before using Zidoval gel, maintaining good hygiene is crucial. Always follow these steps:
Wash your hands before opening the tube or handling the applicators
Use a new applicator for each dose
Dispose of each used applicator immediately in the waste bin
For adults, the recommended dose of Zidoval gel is one 5 g application inserted into the vagina once daily at bedtime, consistently for five consecutive days.