RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Bactericidal activity of metronidazole against Bacteroides fragilis JF Journal of Clinical Pathology JO J Clin Pathol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists SP 393 OP 395 DO 10.1136/jcp.26.6.393 VO 26 IS 6 A1 J. P. F. Whelan A1 J. H. Hale YR 1973 UL http://jcp.bmj.com/content/26/6/393.abstract AB Metronidazole was found to be active against Bacteroides fragilis strains isolated from human lesions. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were from 0·16 to 2·5 μg/ml and the minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were from 0·16 to 2·5 μg/ml; usually the MIC and MBC figures were equivalent. These levels are easily attainable in the serum following normal therapeutic doses. The drug is not toxic and side effects are rare and it would therefore seem highly suitable for treating Bacteroides infections and also may be considered prophylactically in certain situations that are described.