Flagyl (metronidazole) is used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and parasites — organisms that thrive in low-oxygen environments. It is not effective against viral infections like colds or flu. Learn about metronidazole (Flagyl) usage and dosing. Read the latest news and reviews about the drug as well as potential side effects and popular alternatives. Find patient medical information for Metronidazole (Flagyl, Likmez) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Flagyl (metronidazole) is an antibiotic that can help treat certain infections caused by bacteria or parasites that also cause diarrhea. It is not used to treat most cases of sudden (acute) diarrhea, such as viral “stomach flu” or mild food poisoning. It is also used to treat infections caused by protozoa (eg, trichomoniasis and amebiasis) and infections caused by bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive. The extended-release tablets are used to treat women with vaginal infections (bacterial vaginosis). Metronidazole belongs to the class of medicines known as antibiotics. Medscape - Amebiasis-specific dosing for Flagyl, Flagyl ER (metronidazole), frequency-based adverse effects, comprehensive interactions, contraindications, pregnancy & lactation schedules, and. Flagyl, Flagyl ER, and Flagyl Injection (metronidazole) are antimicrobial drugs used to treat bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas, amebiasis, and anaerobic bacterial infections. Flagyl (metronidazole) is not usually used to treat a typical urinary tract infection (UTI), such as uncomplicated bladder infection (acute cystitis). Most uncomplicated UTIs are caused by aerobic bacteria like Escherichia coli that are not reliably covered by metronidazole. Metronidazole is an antibiotic effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites. Anaerobic bacteria are single-celled, living organisms that thrive in environments in which there is little oxygen (anaerobic environments). Metronidazole, sold under the brand name Flagyl and Metrogyl among others, is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication. [10] It is used either alone or with other antibiotics to treat pelvic inflammatory disease, endocarditis, and bacterial vaginosis. [10].