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Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity
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Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity

Published on: April 26, 2012

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Neurologic complications of metronidazole

Justyna R Sarna, Sarah Furtado, A Keith W Brownell

    The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. Le Journal Canadien Des Sciences Neurologiques
    |November 22, 2013
    PubMed

    Insights

    Metronidazole, an antimicrobial, can cause under-recognized neurological side effects. Early detection and stopping the drug typically lead to complete recovery and resolution of imaging findings.

    Area of Science:

    • Neurology
    • Pharmacology
    • Infectious Diseases

    Background:

    • Metronidazole is a widely used antimicrobial agent.
    • While generally safe, it can cause neurological complications.
    • These neurotoxic effects are often under-recognized in clinical practice.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review current literature on metronidazole-induced neurotoxicity.
    • To summarize clinical syndromes, neuroradiological findings, prognosis, and pathophysiology.
    • To emphasize the importance of recognizing these adverse effects.

    Main Methods:

    • Literature review of studies on metronidazole neurotoxicity.
    • Synthesis of clinical and radiological data.
    • Analysis of proposed pathophysiological mechanisms.

    Main Results:

    • Metronidazole can lead to various neurological syndromes.
    • Neuroradiological findings are associated with these syndromes.
    • Prompt discontinuation of metronidazole is linked to recovery.

    Conclusions:

    • Metronidazole-induced neurotoxicity is a critical consideration.
    • Early recognition and drug cessation are key for patient outcomes.
    • Full clinical and radiological recovery is generally expected upon discontinuation.

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