What is the recommended treatment for Trichomonas vaginalis infection?

The recommended treatment for Trichomonas vaginalis infection is oral metronidazole for both the patient and their partner. This approach is grounded in the pharmacologic action of metronidazole, which is a nitroimidazole antibiotic effective in treating infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, including Trichomonas vaginalis.

When managing this infection, it is important to treat both sexual partners simultaneously to prevent reinfection, as Trichomonas is a sexually transmitted infection. Metronidazole is available in both oral and topical forms, but oral treatment is preferred for this condition because it ensures adequate systemic distribution and reduces the risk of treatment failure.

The other options do not adequately address the specific nature of Trichomonas vaginalis infections. Topical clotrimazole is an antifungal treatment and is not effective against this protozoan. Intravaginal tinidazole could be seen as somewhat effective, but it is less commonly used than oral metronidazole and does not align with the standard recommendation of treating both partners. Intramuscular benzathine penicillin is effective against bacterial infections such as syphilis and would not be appropriate for treating a Trichomonas infection.