Metrolex

Metrolex is an oral vaginal infection medication containing Metronidazole 400 mg as its active ingredient. It belongs to the Nitroimidazole drug class, functioning as both an antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent. It is a generic medication manufactured in Thailand.

Metronidazole works by entering the cells of anaerobic microorganisms and protozoa, then directly destroying their DNA, preventing them from dividing and ultimately killing them. This mechanism makes it highly effective against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa but not against aerobic bacteria.

Metrolex contains the same active ingredient as generic Metronidazole — only the brand name and manufacturer differ. Efficacy is equivalent.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): The most common indication. Presents as fishy-smelling, greyish-white discharge. Metronidazole is the first-line treatment for BV.

Trichomoniasis: STI caused by Trichomonas vaginalis — yellowish-green, frothy, itchy discharge. Metronidazole is the primary treatment.

Other anaerobic infections: Intra-abdominal infections, liver abscess, pelvic infections.

Giardiasis: Intestinal infection by Giardia lamblia causing chronic diarrhoea.

Amoebiasis: Amoebic infections and amoebic dysentery.

H. pylori: Used in combination with other medications for H. pylori eradication regimens for stomach ulcers.

Vaginal discharge / Bacterial Vaginosis: Take 400 mg twice daily (morning and evening) for 7 consecutive days, or 2 g single dose. Your doctor will choose the appropriate regimen.

Trichomoniasis: 400 mg twice daily for 7 days, or 2 g single dose (both patient and sexual partner must be treated simultaneously).

Important: Take with or after food to reduce nausea. Swallow whole with water.

If you miss a dose: Take as soon as you remember, but if it's close to the next dose, skip it. Never take a double dose.

⚠️ Critical: Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early. Stopping early may cause antibiotic resistance and recurrence.

Common side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting — most common; reduced by taking with food
• Metallic taste in the mouth — common; resolves after stopping
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain, diarrhoea
• Dry mouth, coated tongue

Serious side effects (stop taking and seek medical attention):

• Peripheral neuropathy — numbness, tingling in hands/feet; stop immediately
• Seizures — rare but requires immediate discontinuation
• Severe allergic reaction — rash, hives, facial swelling, breathing difficulty
• Dark urine — may occur; not harmful but inform your doctor

⚠️ Most important warning — No alcohol:

• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication and for at least 48 hours after stopping
• Combining alcohol with Metronidazole causes a disulfiram-like reaction — severe nausea/vomiting, headache, facial flushing, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure
• This includes alcohol-containing products such as mouthwash and some liquid medicines

Do not use:

• Allergy to Metronidazole or Nitroimidazole drugs
• First trimester of pregnancy

Use with caution:

• Liver disease — dose reduction may be needed
• Neurological conditions
• Breastfeeding — drug passes into breast milk; consult doctor
• Avoid use for more than 10 days due to increased neuropathy risk

Metrolex vs. Metronidazole generic: Same active ingredient (Metronidazole). Both are generics, differing only in brand and manufacturer. Equivalent efficacy — choose based on availability and price.

Metrolex vs. Clindamycin Vaginal: Clindamycin vaginal suppository also treats BV. Advantage: local action with no alcohol interaction concern. However, oral Metronidazole is easier to use and covers a broader spectrum including Trichomoniasis.

Metronidazole has a half-life of approximately 8 hours. Peak blood levels are reached within 1–2 hours after taking.

For vaginal discharge / BV: Symptoms usually begin improving within 2–3 days, but you must complete the full 7-day course even if symptoms improve earlier.

For Trichomoniasis: Symptoms usually improve within the first week of treatment.

If symptoms don't improve after completing the course, or if they recur, consult your doctor for further investigation.

Metrolex is a pharmacist-dispensed medication. You can order online from Intimo Life.

Can I buy Metrolex online?

Yes. Order through Intimo Life — select the product, consult with a licensed pharmacist online, and receive your medication at home.

Do I need a prescription?

A doctor's prescription is not required, but the medication must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. At Intimo Life, our pharmacist will review your symptoms and health history to confirm suitability before shipping.

How does Intimo Life ship orders?

We deliver nationwide in Thailand with discreet packaging — no product names on the outside.