Metronidazole
Also sold as: Flagyl
Prescription neededWorm and parasite medicines
Comes as:TabletSuspensionDrip (infusion)GelVaginal pessary
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose: 400 to 500 mg two or three times a day for 5 to 7 days. Amoebic dysentery: 800 mg three times a day for 5 days. Giardia: 2 g once a day for 3 days. No alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after. Children: dose by weight — ask your doctor.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- nausea
- metallic taste
- loss of appetite
- dark urine
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe allergic reaction
- numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- seizures
- severe skin rash
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Drinking alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after
- First 3 months of pregnancy (ask your doctor)
- Severe liver disease
- Nerve or brain disorders (use with caution)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious2 medicinesDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Mebendazole
The combination has been linked to severe skin reactions; avoid.
- Warfarin