Nitroimidazoles

Nitroimidazoles are antibiotics that are used in the treatment of a variety of infections including giardia, anaerobic infections, and C. difficile infections.  Nitroimidazoles form a cytotoxic intermediate after accepting electrons via a reduction reaction. The cytotoxic intermediate then binds proteins and DNA.  GI disturbances are common. A disulfiram like reaction can occur if alcohol is consumed while taking the medication.

Class Drugs

• Metronidazole

• Tinidazole

Class Mechanism of Action

Reduction (accepts electrons) of nitro group on nitroimidazoles results in cytotoxic intermediate that binds proteins and DNA

Class Applications

Entamoeba histolytica

Giardia

Trichomonas

Anaerobes

C. difficile colitis

Class Adverse Effects

Nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and abdominal cramps

Metallic taste

Disulfiram-like reaction with alcohol

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Metronidazole			"Metro" "Asshole"
Tinidazole			"Tin" "Asshole"