Metronidazole
$0.59
Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections of the stomach, vagina, skin, joints and other areas of the body.
Drug Information
1 review for Metronidazole
Metronidazole is a medicine that kills certain bacteria and parasites. It works well against germs that grow where there is little oxygen, such as deep in the gut, gums and vagina.
It is used for bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, dental and gum infections, some gut infections and infected leg ulcers or pressure sores.
What is it used for?
- Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis
- Dental and gum infections
- Gut infections such as giardia, amoebic dysentery and C. difficile
- Clearing H. pylori stomach infection, together with other medicines
How does it work?
Metronidazole gets inside germs and damages their DNA, so they cannot survive or multiply.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- Do not take it if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this antibiotic or to a similar one.
- Antibiotics only work on infections caused by bacteria. They do not help colds, flu or most sore throats, which are caused by viruses.
- Take the whole course your doctor gives you, even if you feel better after a few days. Stopping early can let the infection come back and make germs harder to treat in the future.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.
- Never share your antibiotics or keep leftovers for another time.
- Do not drink any alcohol while you take it and for at least 2 days after the last dose. Alcohol can make you very sick, with vomiting, flushing and a fast heartbeat.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, a blood disorder, or a nerve or brain condition.
- It can make warfarin and lithium stronger.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Metronidazole can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick
- Diarrhoea or loose stools
- Stomach ache or indigestion
- A metallic taste in the mouth
- Dark or reddish-brown urine (this is harmless)
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Severe diarrhoea that is watery or has blood in it, even up to 2 months after you finish the medicine
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, wheezing or trouble breathing
- A skin rash that blisters or peels, with fever and sore mouth or eyes
- Numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet
- A fit (seizure), confusion or trouble walking
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it exactly as your doctor tells you, usually 2 or 3 times a day.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, during or just after a meal to reduce stomach upset. Do not chew it, as it tastes bitter.
- A common adult dose is 400 mg to 500 mg two or three times a day for 5 to 7 days, or a single 2 g dose for some infections.
- Avoid alcohol completely during the course and for 48 hours after.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Never take two doses at once to make up.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QWhy can't I drink alcohol with Metronidazole?
- A
Together they can cause flushing, a pounding heart, headache, stomach cramps and vomiting. Avoid all alcohol, including mouthwash that contains alcohol, until 48 hours after your last dose.
- QWhy is my urine dark while taking Metronidazole?
- A
Metronidazole can make urine darker or reddish-brown. This is harmless and goes away after you stop.
- QDoes my partner need treatment?
- A
For trichomoniasis, yes. Your partner should also be treated, and you should avoid sex until you have both finished treatment.

Aryan Okeke –
I needed Metronidazole and this was the easiest place I found to order it. The support staff were quick to respond and easy to deal with. No surprise fees at checkout, which I appreciated.