Metronidazole Induced Cerebellar Ataxia: A Rare Case Report

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Metronidazole is an antibiotic and anantiprotozoal drug very commonly used in our day to daypractice. It is either used alone or in combination with otherdrugs to treat Pelvic inflammatory disease, Endocarditis andBacterial Vaginosis. It is generally well tolerated and commonside effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps,metallic taste.Case report We are presenting a rare case of Metronidazoleinduced cerebellar ataxia in a patient who received the drugfor a relatively shorter duration.Conclusion: The neurological features usually occurwhen the drug dose exceeds 2g/day for a prolonged period.Peripheral neuropathy, dizziness, encephalopathy, seizures,optic neuropathy can be seen. Cerebellar ataxia is a rare andserious side effect of this drug.