Secnidazole: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Secnidazole

Rx

Generic NameSecnidazole

Therapeutic ClassNitroimidazole Antiprotozoal

Common Strength2 g single dose

Max / 24hTypically single 2 g dose for adults

PregnancyAvoid in first trimester; caution later

Indications ▼

Bacterial vaginosis

Trichomoniasis

Amebiasis (intestinal and hepatic)

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Secnidazole is reduced by anaerobic organisms to reactive intermediates that damage DNA, leading to cell death. Effective against protozoa and anaerobic bacteria.

Pharmacokinetics: Well absorbed orally; peak plasma concentration 1–2 hours. Metabolized in the liver, mainly excreted in urine and feces. Long half-life (~17 hours) allows single-dose therapy.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Indication	Dose	Frequency
Adult (Bacterial vaginosis / Trichomoniasis)	2 g oral	Single dose
Child (Amebiasis)	30 mg/kg oral	Single dose

Note: Take with food to reduce GI discomfort. Single-dose therapy improves adherence.

Side Effects ▼

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

Diarrhea or constipation

Headache, dizziness

Metallic taste

Rare: hypersensitivity reactions, seizures

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to secnidazole or other nitroimidazoles

First trimester of pregnancy (relative)

Severe hepatic impairment

Drug Interaction ▼

Alcohol: may cause disulfiram-like reaction (avoid during and 24h after therapy)

Warfarin: monitor INR, may increase anticoagulant effect

Other hepatotoxic drugs: caution

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Avoid in first trimester; use only if clearly needed in later pregnancy

Excreted in breast milk; consider temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding or delay next dose

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: Effective single-dose therapy for bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and amebiasis.

Advantage: Single-dose regimen improves compliance; broad anaerobic coverage.

Limitation: Not suitable for severe hepatic impairment; alcohol should be avoided.

Monitoring: Symptom resolution; liver function if prolonged therapy needed.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take with food to reduce stomach upset

Avoid alcohol during treatment and 24 hours afterward

Complete full single-dose therapy even if symptoms improve

Inform healthcare provider of any liver disease or pregnancy

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 30°C

Protect from moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Secnid DS 1000 mg Tablet D‑Zole 1000 mg Tablet Pronil DS 1000 mg Tablet Secnidal DS 1000 mg Tablet Secnizol DS 1000 mg Tablet Sezol DS 1000 mg Tablet Secnidal DS (Sanofi) 1000 mg Tablet Secnid 500 mg/10 ml Suspension Secnidazole Generic 1000 mg Secnidazole Generic 500 mg

Global:

Solosec®

Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Nitroimidazoles • Condition: Bacterial Vaginosis • Condition: Trichomoniasis • Condition: Amebiasis