How to take metronidazole
Metronidazole is available as 200mg and 400mg tablets.
For Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and Trichomoniasis the treatment provided is metronidazole 400mg tablets, and the dosage is one tablet twice a day for seven days. The symptoms should improve within two to three days.
The tablets should be swallowed whole, without chewing, with half a glassful of water, with food, or after food. You should avoid alcohol while taking metronidazole and for 2 days after the course of tablets has finished because it can cause unpleasant and possibly dangerous side effects.
Is metronidazole suitable for me?
There are some situations where metronidazole should be used with caution or would not be recommended. This might be, for example in pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people with a disease of the central nervous system, liver or kidney problems, and people who are allergic to any of the active or inactive ingredients.
Tell the doctor if you are taking any other medicines, either from your GP or if purchased from a pharmacy. Metronidazole may not be suitable or may need to be used with caution if you are taking some medicines including anticoagulants (such as warfarin), lithium, phenobarbital, phenytoin, 5-fluorouracil, and ciclosporin. Also, as above, you should not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least two days after you finish taking it.
It's very important to give a full picture of your general health in the consultation, to make sure the doctor has all the information required to assess the safety and suitability of treatment for you.
What are the side effects of metronidazole?
Like all medicines, metronidazole can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Side effects that have been reported include stomach upsets, taste disorders, skin rashes, allergic reactions, drowsiness or dizziness, confusion, headaches, visual disorders, and darkened urine.
For a full list of potential side effects and other important information, please read the patient leaflet provided in the pack before starting any course of treatment. It is very important to read the leaflet in full before starting to take metronidazole. The leaflet can also be viewed online here:
Prescription