metronidazole benzoate

Metronidazole benzoate is a benzoate ester derivative of metronidazole, formed by the condensation of benzoic acid with the hydroxy group of metronidazole. It appears as a crystalline, white or slightly yellowish powder and is less bitter than standard metronidazole, making it suitable for oral suspensions, especially in pediatric and veterinary use[1][5]. Metronidazole (the active moiety) is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent belonging to the nitroimidazole class. Its mechanism involves diffusion into anaerobic bacteria and protozoa where it is reduced to a nitroso free radical that disrupts DNA structure, leading to cell death[3]. Metronidazole benzoate is used primarily for treating bacterial infections (especially anaerobic bacteria) and intestinal parasites such as amoebiasis and giardiasis[1][4]. It may also be used in veterinary medicine when compounded due to its improved palatability over standard formulations[5].

Other names

metronidazole benzoate