Metronidazole: how to take it safely
Flagyl
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats bowel, dental, pelvic and some skin infections, and trichomonas and amoebic dysentery.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it 2 to 3 times a day, as prescribed.
Take it with
With or just after food, to reduce nausea.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after the last dose. It can make you very sick.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
Possible side effects
Metallic taste, nausea, dark urine, loss of appetite.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor. Numbness or tingling, severe dizziness or a seizure: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.