Topical Metronidazole and PN

Posted By Judith on February 27, 1999 at 13:29:28:







Thank you for your excellent forum.  I have previously posted with numbness,
tingling and right sided weakness of the extremities as well as right side of face,
numbness of face and difficulty swallowing during episodes.  All tests, including the
usual workup for vasculitis, MS, SLE, Epilepsy, Todd's seizures have been done
with the exception of an MRA and LP.
Only three results were positive: an area of decreased activity or flow on the
left side of the brain, a weakly positive ANA and a high SED rate.
In searching for information on Acne Rosacea for which I have been applying
MetroGel and MetroCream for the last 2 years, I happened upon a list of
side effects, some more serious than others, among which were CNS symptoms
including numbness, tingling and weakness.  My pharmacist, on consulting the
CPS, read of difficulties with the recent commercialization of MetroGel, with
cases being recorded of the above side effects.
Is it possible or even probable that my symptoms could have been caused by
this topical drug? How long will it remain in my system?
I know it's a shot in the dark, but I am hopeful that Metronidazole is the culprit.
Many thanks.
Judith