2. pharmacological management bacterial infection

management of bacterial infections (dental abscess/periodontal disease)

amoxicillin

metronidazole

amoxicillin mechanism of action

a penicillin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis leading to cell lysis and death

amoxicillin rational for use

treats bacterial infections such as dental abscesses due to broad spectrum of activity against oral pathogens

amoxicillin dosage

500mg orally 3 times daily for 5-7 days

amoxicillin monitoring

monitor for signs of allergic reactions particularly in penicillin allergic patients

amoxicillin patient counselling

complete full course

take with food to reduce stomach upset

report any signs of an allergic reaction immediately

metronidazole mechanism of action

an antibiotic that disrupts DNA synthesis of anaerobic bacteria + protozoa leading to cell death

metronidazole rational for use

effective against anaerobic bacteria commonly found in dental infections and periodontal disease

metronidazole dosage

400mg orally 3 times daily for 3-7 days

metronidazole monitoring

monitor liver function in prolonged use and watch for signs of neurotoxicity

metronidazole side effects

metallic taste

GI disturbances (nausea/diarrhoea)

risk of peripheral neuropathy with long term use

metronidazole patient counselling

avoid alcohol during treatment for 48 hours after the last dose to prevent a disulfiram-like reaction 

complete full course of treatment