Zidoval Gel

What is Zidoval Gel?

Zidoval gel is an antibiotic treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is a very common bacterial infection that occurs when there’s a change in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. It affects one in three women globally. It can cause unpleasant symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge that’s grey or white in colour, has a ‘fishy’ odour, ‘watery’ in texture and sometimes a burning sensation when you pee. It contains the active ingredient, metronidazole, which kills the bacteria that cause the BV infection and helps prevent symptoms. Zidoval Gel is applied internally to the vagina once a day (preferably at night before bed) for five days. Although it’s not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), BV can still be triggered by sex, and it’s been linked to an increased risk of getting other STIs like chlamydia.

How does Zidoval Gel work?

Zidoval Gel contains an antibacterial medicine called metronidazole. Metronidazole is used for various infections, such as skin infections like rosacea, or mouth infections such as abscesses or gum infections. The pH balance inside the vagina is very delicate and can be disturbed by something as simple as sex, having an IUD fitted or using a new product that has perfumes in it.  Bacteria can quickly grow, reproduce and multiply in an environment like the vagina, where it’s warm and moist. Metronidazole stops the growth of this bacteria by interfering with its DNA and preventing it from producing more proteins – which it needs to multiply. This then causes the bacteria to weaken and the infection to clear up. When applied topically to the vagina internally, it targets the site of the infection and kills the bacteria locally. It may also help to prevent BV from coming back. 

How long does Zidoval Gel take to work?

Zidoval Gel is to be used for five days straight. But the infection, including symptoms, can clear up within a few days to a week, depending on how severe the BV is.  Recurring BV is common, though. 60% of women who have had BV typically experience it again within 12 months. That’s why it’s best to complete the treatment as advised to make sure it’s completely gone and reduce the chance of it coming back.

How to use Zidoval Gel

It’s important to use Zidoval Gel as instructed by your prescriber. Zidoval Gel is for vaginal use only. If you have a same-sex partner, they might need treatment as well. 

Before using Zidoval Gel:

• always wash your hands before opening the tube or touching the applicator
• use a new applicator for each dose (provided)
• use one 5g dose once daily at bedtime for five days

To apply Zidoval Gel:

• remove the cap from the tube and use the pointed end to pierce the tube
• screw the open end of the applicator onto the tube
• squeeze the tube gently to fill the applicator until the plunger stops moving (fills to 5g)
• find a comfortable position (laying on your back with knees bent) insert the applicator deep into your vagina
• slowly push the plunger down to release the gel into your vagina until it stops
• remove the applicator and bin it
• repeat these steps for five days at the same time (before bed)

It’s best to do it at bedtime so the treatment is less disturbed and can work effectively. If your condition hasn’t improved after the five-day course, let your prescriber know.

How effective is Zidoval Gel at treating bacterial vaginosis?

The active ingredient in Zidoval Gel (metronidazole) has been shown to be highly effective at treating bacterial infections, especially BV. Across different studies and clinical trials, 70-90% of women taking metronidazole found that it treated BV and reduced symptoms within a week of treatment. It was also shown to be effective and prevent BV from coming back.

What happens if I make a mistake while using Zidoval Gel? 

If you use too much Zidoval Gel, contact your doctor as soon as possible. Using too much can increase the risk of side effects.

If you forgot to use a dose, don’t take a double dose and just apply the dose at your next bedtime. It’s important to finish your five-day course until your infection clears up completely and your condition has improved. 

It’s also important to know that you should avoid having sex whilst on this treatment. This is because sex can make the treatment less effective and worsen your condition. Ask your doctor if you’re on your period as it’s best not to use tampons during treatment.