An open label crossover trial of effects of metronidazol on hyperlipidaemia

Metronidazole, a synthetic derivative of tile nitroimidazole class, is a known antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent. Following an anecdotal observation of hypolipidemic effect of metronidazole, a randomized open trial of 250 mg three times daily was conducted in 30 subjects. This open label crossover trial was performed in three stages—14 days each—as challenge, wash out and re-challenge on 30 subjects, including six male and 24 female in the age limits of 40 to 73 years (mean 58.7±10.6 years). Results of this trial revealed that metronidazole 750 mg daily in divided doses for 14 days decreased the average of total blood cholesterol in 30 cases by 46±27 mg/dl (14.6%, P=0.025) and LDL cholesterol by 39±28 mg/dl (22%, P=0.005). Decrease in total and LDL cholesterol and increase in HDL cholesterol by 3.8±4.1 mg/dl also accompanied fall of triglyceride level cases by 68±13 mg/dl. This study suggests that metronidazole or its derivatives may form a new class of lipid lowering compounds.