Flagyl (Metronidazole) kills or prevents the growth of certain bacteria and protozoa (single cell organisms). Metronidazole extended-release tablets are used to treat an infection of the vagina called bacterial vaginosis. Metronidazole is also used to treat other types of infections.
What should I tell my doctor before I take Flagyl?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
if you drink alcoholic beverages
anemia or other blood disorders
liver disease
disease of the nervous system
seizures (convulsions)
other chronic illness
an unusual or allergic reaction to metronidazole, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breastfeeding
How should I take Flagyl?
Take metronidazole tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Take Flagyl on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or food. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of Flagyl in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drugs may interact with metronidazole?
alcohol or alcohol-containing beverages or medicines
amprenavir
barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures (convulsions)
carbamazepine
cimetidine
disulfiram
fluorouracil
lithium
methadone
phenytoin
ramelteon
sirolimus
tacrolimus
warfarin
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your doctor if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking metronidazole?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
clumsiness, dizziness, or unsteadiness
fever or chills, sore throat
numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the hands or feet
seizures (convulsions)
skin rash, itching
vomiting or severe stomach pain
More common:
unusual tiredness or weakness
irritation or discharge from the vagina
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
dark brown or reddish urine
diarrhea
dry mouth
food tasting unusual or like metal
headache
loss of appetite
nausea
mild stomach pain or cramps
What should I watch for while taking metronidazole?
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve in 2 or 3 days.
If you are taking Flagyl for a long time you must visit your doctor for regular blood checks.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking metronidazole and for three days afterwards. Alcohol may make you feel dizzy, sick, or flushed. Drinking alcohol while you are taking metronidazole may also give you headaches or stomach pains.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how metronidazole affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum, sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water will help.
If you are being treated for an infection of your sex organs, your sexual partner may also need treatment. You can use a condom to stop reinfection of you or your sexual partner.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor that you are using metronidazole.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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