Metronidazole and Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which excludes the brain and spinal cord. Because of its location, neuropathy is often called peripheral neuropathy, though diabetic neuropathy is another form. Neuropathy causes numbness, tingling and burning in the nerves. It can be caused by trauma, infections and toxins. Metronidazole (Flagyl), an antibiotic, is also implicated in causing neuropathy.

Types

• There are three categories of neuropathy: mononeuropathy, involving one nerve; multiple mononeuropahty, which affects two or more nerves; and polyneuropathy, which affects most parts of the peripheral nervous system simultaneously.

Expert Insight

• According to the "Journal of Child Neurology," Metronidazole, used to treat anaerobic and protozoal infections of the GI and urinary tracts, can cause several neurological complications, including neuropathy. The reason is unknown.

Patient Study

• A patient case study conducted by doctors at the Department of Neurology Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and published in the "Journal of Child Neurology," relates the experience of a 15-year-old girl who developed neuropathy in her feet following a course of Metronidazole for vaginitis.

Time Frame

• According to Info Med, neuropathy often resolves slowly after the patient discontinues Metronidazole. Some patients continue to be affected long term or never fully recover.

Considerations

• According to a study conducted by Gupta, et al., and published in "Neurology India," the amount or duration of Metronidazole that can cause neuropathy has not been established.