The objective of this research demonstrates the excipient potential of alpha-cellulose in metronidazole tablet. Direct compression method was adopted. Powder and tablet properties of the α-cellulose were characterized, evaluated with FTIR, micromeritics, drug content, quality control tests, in vitro drug release and in vitro antimicrobial studies, and the results compared to MCC and Kollidon® VA 64. Chemically, their constituents are almost identical in FTIR study and compatible with API. Batch A powder exhibited a significant good flow property (p<0.05) than others. All the mechanical properties of the batches were within the B.P specification with a significant (p<0.05) low tablet weight and thickness observed in batch A, unlike other batches. Drug contents range within 92.21 ± 0.11-98.44 ± 0.21% and 90.14 ± 0.55-95.61 ± 0.18% for uncoated and coated batches, respectively. In vitro drug release showed gradual drug release except burst effect observed in batch G with a significant (p<0.05) T40 and T75 of 5 and 25 min for uncoated batches, while the coated batches had prolonged T40 and T80, respectively. The MIC was observed around 25 μg/ml. Alpha cellulose can be employed as a directly compressible excipient for tablet production.