Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to fight bacteria in your body. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is used to treat a wide variety of infections. It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria and parasites. This antibiotic treats only certain bacterial and parasitic infections. It will not work for viral infections (such as common cold, flu). LIKMEZ ® is the only US FDA-approved liquid formulation of metronidazole, providing a novel prescribing option for patients with difficulty swallowing or experiencing taste-related hurdles. Certain medications, such as metronidazole and disulfiram, can cause an unpleasant reaction when taken with alcohol. The reaction includes flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and increased thirst. Although metronidazole benzoate is not very soluble in water, it can dissolve in dichloromethane and acetone and is slightly soluble in alcohol. It has a pKa of 3.27 and a melting point of 100°C. Metronidazole is available as capsules, tablets, injections, gels, creams, and lotions. General - Single oral doses of metronidazole, up to 15 g (7.5 times the maximum recommended single dose), have been reported in suicide attempts and accidental overdoses. Metronidazole belongs to the class of medicines known as antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, this medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.