A synthetic Nitroimidazole anti-bacterial with anti-protozoal (amoeba type organisms) activity.
This is a most useful antibiotic particularly for bowel disorders especially low in the bowel e.g. colitis. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect which is not really fully understood but how useful to have a drug exerting an anti-inflammatory activity right inside the inflamed bowel.
Adverse effects are uncommon. Occasionally it will cause vomiting. Very long term use for many months may result in fits occurring. It is an extremely useful drug but care should be observed after many months of treatment.