Zidoval

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of the bacteria within the vagina and though it is not a sexually transmitted infection it can actually raise your risk of catching one including chlamydia. It can cause a change to a woman’s discharge causing it to become watery and thin although up to half of the women who suffer from BV suffer none of the side effects often linked to issues with the vagina such as pain or itchiness. If you notice any unusual changes then it is wise to book a check-up and you may be recommended a treatment such as the antibiotic Zidoval gel.

Trials reported an 80 to 90 percent successful resolution after using this form of treatment both as an intravaginal and oral form of the active drug metronidazole. This type of medication is not designed to stop recurrences or the infection, but in a few studies, women found the use of Zidoval gel being applied for 3 days after their period helped to suppress a recurrent flare up.

Metronidazole, the active ingredient in Zidoval gel, is well documented to kill many forms of infection-causing bacteria and is designed especially to be used on the bacterial vaginosis infection within the vagina.

As a gel, it is applied directly to the site of the infection, meaning the drug need not move throughout the body as when taken in pill form. This allows the user to continue to take other forms of medication with little to no interference between the drugs, such as stopping the Zidoval gel from working effectively.

Although metronidazole tablets would react with alcohol causing unpleasant side effects including cramping and headaches, this is far less likely to occur with a gel as less of the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream. Although it is still recommended you do not drink whilst using any medication, there is less likelihood of you experiencing a reaction from drinking when using the gel.

The active ingredient in Zidoval gel is metronidazole.

The inactive ingredients are :

• Carbopol 974P
• Methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218)
• Disodium Edetate
• Propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216)
• Propylene Glycol (E1520)
• Sodium Hydroxide (E524)
• Purified Water

• Always wash your hands well before use.
• Remove the cap and screw on an applicator to where the cap had been.
• Squeeze the tube gently to fill the applicator with the correct dose. Once the plunger stops moving, the applicator is full.
• Lying on your back, insert the applicator into the vagina, being careful not to cause any discomfort.
• Push the free end down until it stops moving.
• Wrap up and throw away the applicator.
• Wash your hands.
• Lie down as soon as possible after application to avoid leaking.

The active ingredient in Zidoval gel, known as metronidazole, interferes with the DNA of the bacteria, causing the infection. The bacteria which metronidazole kills is known as anaerobic bacteria, meaning it does not require oxygen to live or replicate itself. This is the cause of BV, and by stopping its ability to reproduce itself, it destroys the infection. Any bacteria which is not destroyed by the medication will be cleared up by your immunity.

Generally speaking, patients are given a 5-day prescription though you will be advised as to how long you should use the medication and be given a prescription for this length of time. Ensure you complete the course of treatment as advised to help stop a flare-up.

Most medications cause some form of side effect, some of which are extremely mild and should not stop you from using the product, whereas others may be more serious, such as allergic reactions. Your doctor will take into account the information you provide on your medical assessment form, including other medications you take and allergies you have, before prescribing Zidoval for you to ensure it will be as safe as possible.

Common side effects include vaginal itching, abdominal pain, nausea, headache or dizziness. Thrush is also a common development from Zidoval use and would require a separate treatment.

Uncommon symptoms include vaginal bleeding, bloating, insomnia and swelling of the vulva. If you experience any difficult side effects, contact your doctor right away. If you have an allergic reaction to the product, which can include swelling of the lips or throat, seek medical help right away.

Ensure you tell your doctor if you suffer from a disease of the blood, liver, nervous system or kidneys. Also, let the doctor know if you have used Antabuse, a medication to help treat alcoholism, in the last two weeks.

If pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. Though the risks to the baby are far lower when applied into the vagina rather than a tablet, a small amount of the metronidazole may still be absorbed into the bloodstream.

It is wise not to take other medications when using Zidoval, especially ciclosporin, fluorouracil, lithium and warfarin, which can potentially have interactions with the active ingredient in the gel. If you have any queries about this, then speak to your GP or Click Pharmacy doctor. You can book a free and confidential appointment with an online doctor today.

Zidoval is an antibiotic, and as such, it is a prescription-only treatment which can be purchased online after you are approved for it by our in-house doctors. You will be prompted to fill in a medical assessment form, and our experts will check your answers to ensure this treatment is safe and appropriate for your situation. This will include factoring in any other medications you may be taking at this time.

Once the prescription is approved, you can buy your Zidoval gel, and it will be sent quickly and discreetly to your preferred address.

The two main alternatives to Zidoval Gel are: 

• Metronidazole (Zidoval gel)
• Clindamycin (Dalacin cream)

Metronidazole is the generic version of the gel, which is available as a capsule and a tablet. Similarly, Clindamycin is available in cream, capsule and tablet forms. All of these treatments are prescription-only.

Yes. It would be best if you used Zidavoal regardless of your menstrual cycle. It should be used for the entire course as your GP or pharmacist prescribes.

No. Using intravaginal items, such as tampons, whilst using Zidaval gel on the genital area is strongly advised against. However, this does not mean that you stop using sanitary products altogether. Opt for an unscented sanitary pad instead.