ATCvet Working Group clarifies classification of metronidazole products
Published Thursday July 16 2026

The ATCvet Working Group has clarified the classification of veterinary medicinal products containing metronidazole.

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole derivative used in veterinary medicine for infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and, in some products, also for protozoal infections. As these indications may overlap, clear classification guidance is important to ensure consistent use of ATCvet codes.

The ATCvet Working Group clarified that systemic formulations of metronidazole for anaerobic infections, including products indicated for both anaerobic and protozoal infections, are classified in QJ01XD01 - metronidazole.

Products containing metronidazole that are indicated exclusively for protozoal infections are classified within QP51 - Antiprotozoals, while formulations for gynaecological, urinary, intrauterine or topical dermatological use follow the relevant existing ATCvet guidance.

This clarification is intended to improve consistency in the classification of metronidazole-containing veterinary medicinal products and to support more reliable veterinary medicines statistics. It may also support more complete antimicrobial surveillance, as products classified in QJ01 - Antibacterials for systemic use fall within the scope of mandatory European reporting of sales data for veterinary antimicrobial medicinal products under Regulation (EU) 2021/578.