Nitroimidazole Derivative Antimicrobial Drugs and Liver Injury

Nitroimidazole derivative drugs have been widely used in clinical practice for many years. Metronidazole and ornidazole are nitroimidazole derivative antimicrobial drugs commonly used in treatment of various infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa. They are effective against many microorganisms, such as Clostridium spp., Bacteroides spp. and Trichomonas spp. These drugs are generally well-tolerated without significant adverse effects. However, It has been reported that nitroimidazole derivative drugs can rarely cause hepatotoxicity. Despite the rare occurrence of potential adverse effects on the liver associated with metronidazole and ornidazole treatments, they should not be ignored.