Which gastrointestinal infections is Metronidazole commonly used to treat?

Metronidazole is commonly used to treat pseudomembranous colitis, which is primarily caused by the overgrowth of Clostridium difficile (C. diff) in the intestine. This condition often arises after antibiotic therapy that disrupts the normal flora, allowing C. difficile to proliferate. Metronidazole works effectively against C. difficile due to its ability to penetrate the gut and target anaerobic bacteria, making it a first-line treatment option for this specific gastrointestinal infection.

In contrast, pneumonia and urinary tract infections typically involve different pathogens that are often not susceptible to Metronidazole. Skin infections, while they can involve anaerobic bacteria, are generally treated with other classes of antibiotics that are more suitable for those types of infections. Thus, Metronidazole's effectiveness and targeted action make it particularly valuable in the treatment of pseudomembranous colitis.