Related Experiment Videos
Metronidazole ("Flagyl") in dracunculiasis: a double blind study
Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology
|March 1, 1977
Summary
Metronidazole effectively treated dracunculiasis (guinea worm disease), achieving an 85% cure rate. This safe and well-tolerated medication provided symptomatic relief and reduced complications, making it a suitable treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dracunculiasis, or guinea worm disease, is a debilitating parasitic infection.
- Effective and safe treatment options are crucial for managing dracunculiasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of metronidazole in treating dracunculiasis.
- To determine optimal dosage and treatment duration for metronidazole in dracunculiasis patients.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 229 dracunculiasis cases.
- Administration of metronidazole at 400 mg three times daily for 10-20 days.
Main Results:
- An 85% cure rate was observed with metronidazole treatment.
- Symptomatic relief, including pain and pruritus, occurred within two weeks for most patients.
- Metronidazole was well-tolerated with no serious side-effects observed, even with extended use.
Conclusions:
- Metronidazole is an effective and safe treatment for dracunculiasis.
- A dosage of 400 mg three times daily for 10-20 days is suitable.
- Metronidazole can manage secondary infections and reduce complications like abscess formation.