Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Terconazole/metronidazole

Terconazole and metronidazole are antifungal and antibacterial agents that work by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol and DNA replication, respectively.

Terconazole and metronidazole are antifungal and antibacterial agents that work by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol and DNA replication, respectively. Used for Vaginal candidiasis, Bacterial vaginosis.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Terconazole is a triazole antifungal that inhibits the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, preventing the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibacterial that works by entering the cell and causing DNA damage through the formation of free radicals, ultimately leading to cell death.

Approved indications

• Vaginal candidiasis
• Bacterial vaginosis

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

Key clinical trials

• Multi-Center Study of New Medications to Treat Vaginal Infections (PHASE3)
• Multi-Center Study of New Medications to Treat Vaginal Infections (PHASE3)
• Multi-Center Study of New Medications to Treat Vaginal Infections (PHASE3)
• In Vivo Drug Interaction Pharmacokinetic Study of Tenofovir 1% Gel and Three Commonly Used Vaginal Products (PHASE1)
• Management of Vaginal Complaints: A Pilot Study Within a Practice-Based Research Network (EARLY_PHASE1)
• A Study to Compare Efficacy and Safety of an Ovule Containing Terconazole, Clindamycin and Fluocinolone Versus an Ovule Containing Metronidazole, Nystatin and Fluocinolone in the Treatment of Secondary Vulvar/ or Vaginal Symptoms of Infectious Vaginitis/ and Infectious Vaginosis (PHASE3)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.