Metronidazole

Synonyms: 2-Methyl-5-nitroimidazole-1-ethanol, 1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole, Flagyl, Metronidazolum, Metronidazoleum, 2-Methyl-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-5-nitro-1H-imidazole, RP 8823

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent. Its structure consists of a 5-nitroimidazole ring substituted with a methyl group at position 2 and a 2-hydroxyethyl group at position 1. This small, polar molecule is chemically stable under normal conditions and exhibits pH-dependent solubility, with improved aqueous solubility under acidic conditions due to protonation of the imidazole nitrogen.

Since its introduction in the 1960s, metronidazole has become a mainstay in the treatment of anaerobic bacterial and protozoal infections. It is effective against a broad range of pathogens, including Bacteroides spp., Clostridium spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Entamoeba histolytica, and Giardia lamblia. The compound is available in various dosage forms, including oral tablets, topical gels, and intravenous solutions, and is also used in veterinary medicine.

In the pharmaceutical industry, metronidazole is produced under strict cGMP conditions. It is commonly supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a purity of 99.0% to 101.0% (on dried basis). The API is freely soluble in ethanol, slightly soluble in water, and sparingly soluble in ether. Its stability and well-characterized safety profile make it a reliable choice for formulators developing both human and veterinary products.

Chemical Structure & Properties

The imidazole ring system in metronidazole is electron-deficient due to the nitro group, which facilitates reduction under anaerobic conditions. The hydroxyethyl side chain enhances water solubility and allows for ester prodrug formation. The compound has a pKa of approximately 2.6, and its logP is around -0.02, indicating balanced lipophilicity. It is stable in solid form and in aqueous solutions at pH 2–7, but may degrade under strong alkaline conditions or prolonged exposure to light.

Mechanism of Action

• Reductive activation: The nitro group is reduced by ferredoxin-like electron transport proteins in susceptible microorganisms, generating reactive intermediates that damage DNA.
• DNA strand breakage: These reactive species cause helix destabilization and strand breakage, leading to cell death.
• Selective toxicity: Because the reduction occurs preferentially in anaerobic organisms, metronidazole spares aerobic cells and normal flora.
• Bactericidal and protozoacidal: The drug is rapidly bactericidal against anaerobes and effectively kills protozoa such as Trichomonas and Entamoeba.

Quality Specifications (QC Tests)

Supply & Documentation

• Capacity: 20 MT per month
• Lead time: 3-5 business days for stock items
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS, GMP certificate, DMF available upon request
• Packaging: 25 kg fiber drum with double polyethylene liner; custom packaging available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for metronidazole?

Our standard MOQ is 25 kg. For smaller quantities, we can accommodate sample orders starting from 100 g for research and development purposes.

What is the typical delivery time?

We maintain ample stock of metronidazole. Orders are typically dispatched within 3-5 business days after order confirmation.

Do you provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and samples?

Yes, we provide a COA for each batch. Samples are available upon request; please contact our sales team for arrangements.

Contact & Ordering Information

• Company: LyvBio Co., Ltd.
• Address: Room 5-0203, Courtyard 205, Lianhu District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
• Email: info@lyvbio.com
• Phone: +86-29-65816888

send us your specification for a quotation.