nalidys suspension - Nalidixic Acid (100mg) + Metronidazole (150mg) medicine

Aldigram 100 Mg/150 Mg Suspension: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Biological E Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 26, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Nalidixic acid is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential risk of cartilage damage in the fetus. Metronidazole crosses the placenta and its use in pregnancy should be based on a careful risk-benefit assessment by a clinician. This combination should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for specific indications; limited for combination use.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 26, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
  • Sudden joint pain or swelling

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is nalidys suspension used for?

This medicine is a combination antibiotic suspension containing nalidixic acid and metronidazole, used to treat mixed bacterial and protozoal infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA replication and damaging anaerobic organisms. It should be taken exactly as prescribed, with food, and alcohol must be avoided.

  • Generic Name: Nalidixic Acid (100mg) + Metronidazole (150mg)
  • Manufacturer: Biological E Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 nalidys suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा नालिडिक्सिक एसिड और मेट्रोनिडाजोल का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग मिश्रित जीवाणु और प्रोटोजोआ संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण, पेल्विक सूजन रोग, गियार्डिया और अमीबियासिस में प्रभावी है। यह दवा बैक्टीरिया के डीएनए को नष्ट करके उन्हें मारती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें और शराब का सेवन बिल्कुल न करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना और मुँह में धातु जैसा स्वाद शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में टेंडन टूटना, तंत्रिका क्षति, दौरे और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएँ शामिल हैं। शराब के साथ लेने पर गंभीर प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। हर बार उपयोग से पहले बोतल को अच्छी तरह हिलाएँ। दवा को भोजन के साथ लें ताकि पेट खराब न हो। उपचार के दौरान और अंतिम खुराक के 48 घंटे बाद तक शराब न पिएँ। धूप में बाहर निकलते समय सनस्क्रीन और सुरक्षात्मक कपड़े पहनें। दवा का कोर्स पूरा करें, बीच में न छोड़ें। बच्चों की पहुँच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 nalidys suspension Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Complicated urinary tract infections","description":"Used when mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacteria are suspected, especially after catheterization or in patients with structural abnormalities.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Pelvic inflammatory disease","description":"Combination covers both gonococcal and anaerobic organisms in polymicrobial pelvic infections.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Bacterial vaginosis","description":"Metronidazole component targets Gardnerella vaginalis and anaerobes; nalidixic acid adds gram-negative coverage.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Giardiasis","description":"Metronidazole is effective against Giardia lamblia; nalidixic acid may cover concurrent bacterial overgrowth.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Amebiasis","description":"Metronidazole treats Entamoeba histolytica; combination may be used in mixed intestinal infections.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prophylaxis in colorectal surgery","description":"Sometimes used to cover aerobic and anaerobic bowel flora, though other regimens are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Diverticulitis","description":"Combination may be used in mild cases, but standard regimens usually include other agents.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Mixed bacterial infections

Also treats: Urinary tract infections, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Giardiasis, Amebiasis, Bacterial vaginosis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Nalidixic Acid (100mg) + Metronidazole (150mg)
Brand Namenalidys suspension
ManufacturerBiological E Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always prescribe this combination only when mixed aerobic-anaerobic infection is confirmed or strongly suspected.
2
Advise patients to take the suspension with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
3
Warn patients to strictly avoid alcohol during and for 48 hours after treatment.
4
Monitor renal and hepatic function in patients with pre-existing impairment.
5
Counsel patients to complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.
6
Advise patients to use sun protection due to photosensitivity risk.
7
In elderly patients, assess tendon function and warn about rupture risk.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Burning urination
This medicine is commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections.
Likely Use
✅
Pelvic pain
Used for pelvic inflammatory disease.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
✅
Diarrhea with greasy stools
May be used for giardiasis.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNalidixic acid is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma levels reached in 1-2 hours. Metronidazole is also well absorbed orally, with bioavailability exceeding 90%. Food may delay absorption slightly but does not significantly reduce the extent.
DistributionNalidixic acid is widely distributed to tissues, including the kidneys and prostate, but has poor penetration into the cerebrospinal fluid. Metronidazole distributes extensively to most tissues and body fluids, including the central nervous system, and crosses the placenta and blood-brain barrier.
Protein BindingNalidixic acid is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins. Metronidazole is less than 20% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismNalidixic acid is partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites, including glucuronide conjugates. Metronidazole is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, to hydroxy and acid metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of nalidixic acid is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours in patients with normal renal function. Metronidazole has a half-life of approximately 6 to 8 hours.
ExcretionNalidixic acid and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine, with about 80% of a dose recovered in urine within 24 hours. Metronidazole and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine (60-80%) and to a lesser extent in feces.
BioavailabilityNalidixic acid oral bioavailability is approximately 90% in fasting state. Metronidazole oral bioavailability is approximately 90-100%.
Onset of ActionAntibacterial effects begin within 1-2 hours after oral administration, but clinical improvement may take 24-48 hours.
Peak Plasma TimeNalidixic acid peak plasma concentration occurs at 1-2 hours; metronidazole peak at 1-2 hours.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial effect persists for approximately 6-8 hours for nalidixic acid and 8-12 hours for metronidazole, requiring multiple daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine combines two antibiotics with distinct mechanisms. Nalidixic acid inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II), blocking DNA replication and causing bacterial cell death, primarily in gram-negative organisms. Metronidazole enters anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, where its nitro group is reduced to reactive radicals that damage DNA and inhibit nucleic acid synthesis, leading to cell death. Together, they provide broad coverage against aerobic gram-negative and anaerobic organisms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Nalidixic acid uptake: Nalidixic acid enters bacterial cells and binds to DNA gyrase, stabilizing the enzyme-DNA complex.
2
Inhibition of DNA replication: This binding prevents the supercoiling necessary for DNA replication and transcription, leading to bacterial death.
3
Metronidazole activation: Metronidazole diffuses into anaerobic organisms where its nitro group is reduced by ferredoxin-like electron transport proteins.
4
DNA damage: The reduced metronidazole forms reactive radicals that cause DNA strand breaks and inhibit nucleic acid synthesis.
5
Cell death: The combined damage from both agents leads to rapid killing of susceptible aerobic and anaerobic pathogens.

💡 How to Take nalidys suspension

Strength: Each 5 mL of suspension contains nalidixic acid 100 mg and metronidazole 150 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed.
2Measure the prescribed dose using the measuring cup or spoon provided with the medicine.
3Take the medicine with a meal or snack to reduce stomach upset.
4Swallow the suspension directly; do not mix with hot liquids.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
6Complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.
7Store the bottle tightly closed at room temperature.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this suspension is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the type and severity of infection, patient weight, and renal/hepatic function. A typical regimen may involve taking one to two teaspoonfuls (5-10 mL) every 6 to 8 hours, but this must be confirmed by your doctor. Do not self-medicate. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. Nalidixic acid is generally not recommended for children under 12 years due to risk of cartilage and tendon damage.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Close monitoring is advised.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, nalidixic acid may accumulate. Dose reduction or alternative therapy should be considered. Metronidazole generally does not require dose adjustment in renal impairment, but monitoring is advised. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentMetronidazole is metabolized in the liver; dose reduction may be required in severe hepatic impairment. Nalidixic acid should be used with caution. Regular liver function monitoring is recommended.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose must be determined by a qualified clinician based on the patient's condition and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid completely
Can cause disulfiram-like reaction.
Caffeine
Moderate intake
May increase jitteriness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of nalidys suspension

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food and stay hydrated. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Take with a light meal. If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of dose, consult your doctor about re-dosing.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Increase fluid intake. If diarrhea is severe or bloody, seek medical attention.
Metallic taste (Common (10-20%))
Usually temporary. Chewing sugar-free gum or rinsing mouth may help.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and hydrate. If severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Tendon rupture (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden pain, swelling, or inability to move a joint.
Peripheral neuropathy (Rare (<0.1%))
Report numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet to your doctor promptly.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience convulsions or loss of consciousness.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate emergency care for rash, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing.
Blood dyscrasias (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or fatigue to your doctor for blood tests.
Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you develop severe, persistent diarrhea with fever or abdominal pain.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Photosensitivity
Use sunscreen and protective clothing; avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Insomnia
Take the last dose of the day well before bedtime; consult if persistent.
Visual disturbances
Report changes in vision to your doctor promptly.
Hepatotoxicity
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or right upper abdominal pain immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Alcohol Major
Theophylline Major
Lithium Major
Antacids Moderate
Cimetidine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Cyclosporine Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Sucralfate Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol
  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
  • Theophylline
  • Lithium

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Cimetidine
  • Phenytoin
  • Cyclosporine
  • Oral contraceptives

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol must be strictly avoided while taking this medicine and for at least 48 hours after the last dose. Metronidazole can cause a disulfiram-like reaction characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, headache, and rapid heartbeat. This reaction can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention if it occurs.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["History of tendon disorders related to quinolone use","Severe hepatic impairment","First trimester of pregnancy (nalidixic acid)","Known hypersensitivity to nalidixic acid, metronidazole, or other nitroimidazoles","Children under 12 years (nalidixic acid)","Concurrent use of disulfiram","Alcohol consumption during treatment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Photosensitivity reactions can occur; use sunscreen and protective clothing.","Avoid alcohol completely during and for 48 hours after treatment.","May cause peripheral neuropathy; report numbness or tingling.","Tendon rupture risk, especially in elderly and those on corticosteroids.","May increase risk of seizures in patients with CNS disorders.","Prolonged use may lead to superinfections.","Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Both nalidixic acid and metronidazole are excreted in breast milk. Metronidazole may cause diarrhea or thrush in the nursing infant. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking this medicine, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Consult your doctor for guidance; you may need to pump and discard milk during treatment.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and in severe cases, seizures or peripheral neuropathy. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs and provide anticonvulsant therapy if seizures occur. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Shake the bottle well before each dose to ensure uniform mixing. Measure the dose using the provided measuring cup or spoon, not a household spoon. Take it with food to reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol completely during treatment and for at least 48 hours after the last dose, as it can cause a severe reaction. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors because this medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Do not stop taking this medicine early, even if you feel better, as this can lead to resistance. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you are taking blood thinners, antacids, or other antibiotics. Do not share this medicine with others. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function. Close monitoring is recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have recently undergone surgery, inform your surgeon about this medicine. It may interact with other medications and affect wound healing. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosing and monitoring.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
🥗
Avoid alcohol completely during treatment.
😴
Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
💧
Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
🧘
Get adequate rest to support recovery.
🌞
Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting while taking this medicine, as it may increase the risk of tendon rupture. If you experience joint pain or swelling, stop exercising and consult your doctor.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Include probiotics like yogurt to maintain gut health.
Avoid spicy and oily foods that may worsen stomach upset.
Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It is advisable to take it with food and rest if needed. Most people can continue their daily activities with caution.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of infection and antibiotic resistance. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for guidance.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to bacterial resistance, superinfections, and rare but serious effects such as peripheral neuropathy, tendon rupture, and liver toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal and hepatic function is advised for prolonged therapy. Use only for the prescribed duration.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Fluoroquinolone-based combinations

Other combinations like ciprofloxacin and metronidazole may be used for broader coverage.

Evidence: Well-established
Targeted antibiotic therapy

Based on culture and sensitivity results, a more specific antibiotic may be chosen.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your doctor about your current medications.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially for international travel. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Do not pack it in checked luggage; keep it in your carry-on. Check customs regulations for restricted medicines in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with pelvic inflammatory disease
She was prescribed this suspension for 7 days. She took it with food as directed and avoided alcohol. Her pelvic pain and discharge improved within 3 days, but she completed the full course to prevent recurrence. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after taking it with meals.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food reduces side effects and completing the full course ensures better outcomes.
👤 A 50-year-old man with a complicated urinary tract infection
He was started on this suspension after a urine culture showed mixed organisms. He was advised to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. His symptoms resolved by day 5, but he continued for the full 10-day course. He reported a metallic taste, which was temporary.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the prescribed duration and hydration are key to successful treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling better within 24-48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, taking it with food helps reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: No, alcohol must be strictly avoided during treatment and for 48 hours after the last dose due to the risk of a severe reaction.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for nalidys suspension

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure any infection.
    Fact: It is only effective against specific susceptible bacteria and protozoa; inappropriate use can lead to resistance.
  • Myth: You can stop taking it once you feel better.
    Fact: You must complete the full prescribed course to prevent recurrence and resistance.
  • Myth: It is safe to drink alcohol while on this medicine.
    Fact: Alcohol can cause a severe disulfiram-like reaction with metronidazole; avoid completely.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Nalidixic acid + Metronidazole suspension (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Aldigram 100 mg/150 mg suspension

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Nalidixic acid 100 mg + Metronidazole 150 mg per 5 mL","class":"Quinolone + Nitroimidazole","route":"Oral","primary_use":"Mixed bacterial and protozoal infections"},{"medicine":"Ciprofloxacin + Metronidazole","composition":"Ciprofloxacin 250 mg + Metronidazole 200 mg per 5 mL","class":"Fluoroquinolone + Nitroimidazole","route":"Oral","primary_use":"Broad-spectrum coverage"}]

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