metronidazole + acetylcysteine

Metronidazole + acetylcysteine is an investigational combination regimen being evaluated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the prevention of its recurrence. Metronidazole is a well-established nitroimidazole antibiotic that inhibits nucleic acid synthesis by forming nitroso radicals that cause DNA strand breakage in anaerobic bacteria. Acetylcysteine (N-acetyl cysteine) is a mucolytic agent with antioxidant properties that has been shown to disrupt bacterial biofilms, which are present in approximately 90% of BV cases and are primarily composed of *Gardnerella vaginalis*. By breaking down the protective biofilm matrix, acetylcysteine is intended to enhance the penetration and efficacy of metronidazole against the underlying pathogens, potentially addressing the high rates of recurrence associated with standard antibiotic therapy. This combination has been investigated in Phase 4 clinical trials led by academic institutions such as Minia University.

Other names

metronidazole + N-acetyl cysteinemetronidazole + NAC