Zidoval Gel

What is Zidoval Gel?

Zidoval Vaginal Gel is a prescription-only antibacterial medicine. Its active ingredient is Metronidazole, which belongs to a class of drugs called nitroimidazole antibiotics.

Mechanism of Action

Think of the bacteria causing BV as tiny factories. Metronidazole works by entering these bacterial "factories" and interfering with their essential internal machinery (specifically, their DNA). This damage prevents the bacteria from multiplying and surviving, effectively killing them and clearing the infection at the source.

Biologically, Metronidazole is a prodrug. It becomes activated only inside the specific anaerobic (non-oxygen loving) bacteria responsible for BV. Once activated, it creates toxic compounds that break down the bacteria's genetic material, leading to cell death.

What is Zidoval Gel Used For?

Zidoval Gel is used for a single, approved indication:

• Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) in adults.

BV is a common condition caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina. Zidoval Gel is applied directly into the vagina, delivering the antibiotic precisely where it's needed to destroy the overgrown harmful bacteria and restore balance.

Before Using Zidoval Gel

Before starting treatment, discuss your medical history with your clinician. Special consideration is needed if you:

• Have ever had any blood disorders.
• Have, or think you may have, a vaginal thrush (candidiasis) infection, as symptoms may become more noticeable.
• Are currently on your period.
• Are due to have blood tests, as metronidazole can interfere with some results.

As with all vaginal infections, it is advisable to avoid sexual intercourse during the infection and while using Zidoval Gel to aid healing and prevent irritation.

Zidoval Gel Contraindications

Absolute contraindications where Zidoval Gel must not be used:

Absolute Contraindications

• Are allergic to metronidazole, or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
• Are allergic to any other similar nitroimidazole antibiotics (e.g., tinidazole).
• Are allergic to parabens (methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate, which are preservatives in the gel).

Special Population Considerations

Elderly Patients

• Not recommended as safety in this group has not been established.

Children and Adolescents (<18 years)

• Not recommended as safety in this group has not been established.

Zidoval Gel and Other Medicines

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you are taking, including those without a prescription. Zidoval Gel may increase the effects of:

• Coumarin anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) - used to thin the blood.
• Lithium - used to treat mental illness.
• Cyclosporin - used for autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis.
• 5-fluorouracil - used for skin problems and cancer treatment.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, you must ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine. They will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing it.

Driving & Machine Operation

Zidoval Gel may cause dizziness and headache. If you experience these side effects, you should not drive or operate machinery until you feel well again.

Zidoval Gel Ingredients

Active Substance

• Metronidazole (7.5 mg per gram of gel).

Other Ingredients (Excipients)

• Carbopol 974P (thickening agent)
• Disodium edetate (stabiliser)
• Methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) - Can cause allergic reactions.
• Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216) - Can cause allergic reactions.
• Propylene glycol (E1520) - 30 mg per gram. May cause skin irritation.
• Sodium hydroxide (E524) (pH adjuster)
• Purified water

How to Use Zidoval Gel

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. It is for vaginal use only.

Zidoval Gel Dosage Guidelines

Standard Treatment Schedule

• Adult Dose (18 years and over):
• One 5-gram application inserted into the vagina.
• Once daily, at bedtime.
• For five consecutive days.

Use a fresh disposable applicator for each dose.

Administration Instructions

Step-by-step application guide:

Preparation Steps

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Open the tube: Remove the cap and pierce the sealed end with the pointed end of the cap.
3. Fill the applicator: Screw an applicator onto the tube. Gently squeeze the tube from the bottom until the plunger stops (this is the 5g dose). Remove the applicator and replace the cap on the tube.

Application Process

1. Insert the applicator: Lie on your back with knees bent. Hold the barrel and gently insert the applicator into the vagina as far as is comfortable.
2. Release the gel: Slowly push the plunger all the way down to release the gel.
3. Remove the applicator and throw it in the bin immediately. Do not reuse.

Missed Dose Management

If you forget to use Zidoval Gel at your usual time, do not double the dose to make up for the forgotten one. Simply apply the gel at your next bedtime and continue with the course as normal.

Overdose Information

Do not use more Zidoval Gel than you should. If you accidentally use too much, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. Using too much can increase the risk of side effects. If the gel is ingested orally, seek immediate medical attention.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, Zidoval Gel can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Common (May affect up to 1 in 10 people)

• Headache, dizziness
• Stomach cramps, feeling sick (nausea), vomiting
• Unpleasant or metallic taste in the mouth, unusual feeling on the tongue
• Vaginal thrush (candidiasis), vaginal discharge, pelvic discomfort
• Dry skin, skin redness, itching, irritation, discomfort (burning, stinging)
• Decreased appetite

Uncommon (May affect up to 1 in 100 people)

• Feeling sick (nausea), diarrhoea, constipation, bloated stomach
• Dry mouth, feeling thirsty
• Depression, tiredness, irritability, difficulty sleeping
• Unusual feeling in fingers/toes, muscle cramps
• Darkened urine, urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Swelling of the vulva, changes in periods (spotting, bleeding between periods, increased discomfort)

Frequency Not Known

• Itchy rash (urticaria)

How to Store Zidoval Gel

• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton and tube.
• Store below 25°C.
• Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use.

Pack Information

What Zidoval Gel looks like and contents of the pack:

• The gel is colourless or straw-coloured.
• It is packaged in a 40 g aluminium tube with a plastic screw cap.
• Each carton contains one 40 g tube and 5 disposable vaginal applicators.

Marketing Authorisation Holder

Mylan Products Ltd., Station Close, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 1TL, United Kingdom.

Where Can I Buy Zidoval Gel Online in the UK