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Metronidazole

If antibiotic treatment of dental abscess is indicated, metronidazole is effective against anaerobic bacteria and is a suitable alternative in patients who are allergic to penicillin. It can also be used as an adjunct to penicillin in patients with severe, spreading infection or pyrexia.2 

The suggested duration of antibiotic treatment is 3-5 days, with review at 3 days (see Bacterial infections 3-day review tool).

An appropriate 5-day regimen is:

Metronidazole Tablets, 400 mg

Send: 15 tablets

Label: 1 tablet three times daily

Metronidazole Tablets, 200 mg, or Oral Suspension, 200 mg/5 ml

1–2 years

50 mg three times daily

3–6 years

100 mg twice daily

7–9 years

100 mg three times daily

10–17 years

200 mg three times daily

For adults

Metronidazole Tablets, 400 mg

Send: 15 tablets

Label: 1 tablet three times daily

For children

Metronidazole Tablets, 200 mg, or Oral Suspension, 200 mg/5 ml

1–2 years

50 mg three times daily

3–6 years

100 mg twice daily

7–9 years

100 mg three times daily

10–17 years

200 mg three times daily