Zidoval Gel

What is Zidoval?

Zidoval is an antibiotic gel that you can use to treat bacterial vaginosis or BV. You insert each dose into your vagina using the disposable applicators included, where the gel can get to work combatting the bacteria which cause your infection right away. It works quickly, with most treatments needing just one application a day for 5 days to be completely effective.

How to use Zidoval gel

Before using Zidoval gel, you should wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Open the tube of gel and screw the end of an applicator onto the open end of the tube. Gently squeeze the tube of gel to fill the applicator, you’ll notice that the plunger of the applicator moves as you fill it up and will stop when it’s full. Remove the applicator from the gel tube when you’ve filled it and replace the cap on the tube. Insert the end of the applicator into your vagina, like you would insert a tampon, placing it as far into the vagina as it will comfortably go. If you find it easier, you can do this lying down or with one leg raised. When the applicator is inserted, slowly push down on the plunger until it stops, this will release the gel. Remove the applicator and throw it away with your household waste, then wash your hands again.

How much of this product should I use per dose?

You should follow the dosage instructions given to you by your prescriber, but you will usually take Zidoval gel once a day for a total of 5 days. You should use one full applicator of gel a day, applying it at bedtime and using a fresh applicator each time. If your condition hasn’t improved after 5 days you should speak to your doctor.

How does metronidazole treat bacterial vaginosis?

Metronidazole is the active ingredient in Zidoval gel, with 7.5mg of this ingredient in each gram of gel. Metronidazole is an antibiotic, which means it works by combatting the bacteria that cause the BV infection. This helps your natural balance of healthy bacteria to even back out and gives your body the space it needs to heal your infection. It’s important to use the entire course of metronidazole that is prescribed to you, even if your symptoms go away, as this will help to keep the infection from coming back.

What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Bacterial vaginosis (also known as BV) is an infection in your vagina which causes an unusual, fishy-smelling discharge. It happens when the natural balance of healthy bacteria in your vagina becomes disrupted, letting the bacteria that cause BV grow and thrive, causing an infection. BV usually isn’t serious, and around 50% of people who have this infection won’t experience any symptoms, but those who do will notice that their vaginal discharge looks thin, grey-ish, or watery and will have a distinct fishy smell. Although BV isn’t an STI (sexually transmitted infection), it can be caused by sex and you may find that your symptoms are worse after having sex.

What is the difference between BV and thrush?

Thrush is a common fungal infection that can affect your vagina, making it very similar to BV in some ways. Vaginal thrush and BV have quite different symptoms, so it’s usually pretty simple to tell them apart. Here’s a rundown of the symptoms you’ll experience with each one:

Can I have sex while I’m using this treatment?

You should not have sex while you’re using Zidoval gel, as it can affect your treatment. Although having sex while you have bacterial vaginosis won’t cause any discomfort, it can increase your chances of catching STIs like chlamydia. If you have a same-sex partner, you can also pass the infection to them during sex, which will mean that they’ll need treatment too.

Will metronidazole gel affect my contraception?

As you should not have sex while using this treatment, you probably won’t need to use contraception until your treatment is over. However, if you do decide to have sex and normally use a barrier method of contraception (such as a male or female condom), then you will probably need to use another method of contraception (like the contraceptive pill) too. Medications used inside the vagina can affect the structure of condoms, making them more likely to break and making them less effective. If you’re concerned about sex or contraception while using this medication, you should let your prescriber know during your consultation so they can give you advice and help you to decide what will be best for you.

Can I use Zidoval if I’m on my period?

You should tell your prescriber if you’re on your period when you’re going through your consultation for Zidoval. Your period and feminine hygiene products like tampons can affect this medication and can make it less effective or more difficult to apply correctly, so you won’t be able to use it during your period. Before your consultation, you might also want to consider whether you’re due to start your period within the next week or so and let your prescriber know if you think you might.

Can I use this BV gel treatment if I’m pregnant?

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding you should let your prescriber know about this during your consultation. As this treatment is inserted into your vagina, your prescriber will need to consider whether this will have any effects on your pregnancy as well as weighing up the pros and cons of any effects metronidazole can have on your baby. You should usually avoid taking any unnecessary medications while pregnant or breastfeeding, so make sure to discuss this treatment with a medical professional before using it.

Can I use Metronidazole vaginal gel alongside my usual medication?

If you’re taking any other medication, including medicines you obtained without a prescription or herbal remedies, you should tell your prescriber about them during your consultation. Some medications can interact when used together, causing unwanted side effects or making your treatment less effective. Be especially sure to mention if you are taking any of the following:

• Anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners, such as warfarin
• Lithium, which is used to treat mental illnesses
• Cyclosporin, which is used to treat autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis
• 5-fluorouracil, which is used to treat skin problems and some cancers

Can I drink alcohol while I’m using this treatment?

Drinking alcohol while taking Zidoval gel can cause some side effects, so we’d recommend avoiding alcohol while you’re using this treatment. If you do drink alcohol then you should look out for the following side effects:

• Feeling sick
• Being sick (vomiting)
• Feeling confused
• Headaches
• An abnormally fast heartbeat

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop drinking alcohol and speak to a doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

When should this product not be used?

Zidoval gel is not suitable for use in children and adolescents under the age of 18 or elderly people. Do not use this medication if you are allergic to metronidazole, other nitroimidazole antibacterials, parabens (a preservative agent), or any of the other listed ingredients in this medication. Tell your prescriber during your first consultation if you:

• Have or have ever had any blood problems or diseases affecting the blood
• Have or think you may have vaginal thrush
• Are having your period
• Are having blood tests, as this treatment can interfere with some test results

Does metronidazole gel have any side effects?

Like all medications, Zidoval metronidazole gel can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most common side effects of this treatment include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Stomach cramps
• Being sick (vomiting)
• An unpleasant taste in your mouth
• An unusual feeling on your tongue
• Dry skin
• Redness of your skin
• Itchy skin
• Skin discomfort, e.g. burning, pain, stinging
• Skin irritation
• Vaginal thrush
• Vaginal discharge
• Discomfort in your pelvis
• A decrease in your appetite

For a complete list of potential side effects of this product, please see the patient information leaflet included with your medication. If you experience these or any other side effects while taking this product you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice. If any of your symptoms become severe (for example, in the case of a severe allergic reaction), be sure to seek immediate medical assistance. For more information about reporting the side effects of medication, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.

Do I need a prescription for Zidoval gel?

You do need a prescription for Zidoval gel in the UK. Our healthcare professionals can provide prescriptions if they think this treatment would be right for you and your condition. When you click the button which reads “Start Consultation” at the top of this page, you’ll see a short questionnaire set up by our healthcare team which is designed to help them understand your medical needs. Just like an in-person consultation with your GP, our doctors will assess your answers to their questions and write a prescription for the treatment they think will be best for you. You’ll then be able to pay for your medication and we’ll send it out to you quickly and in discreet packaging.

How to store this product

Store in a cool, dry place which is below 25 degrees C. Do not use this product if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Important information

This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.

Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.

Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.

Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.

Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction

For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.

If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:

NHS Help & Advice on Drug Addiction

Talk To Frank - Drug Addiction Help & Support