This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Flagyl Consumer Information
FLAGYL
Generic Name: metronidazole (oral) (me troe NI da zole)
Brand Names: Flagyl, Flagyl 375, Flagyl ER, Protostat
What is the most important information I should know about metronidazole?
- Take all of the metronidazole that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, and vomiting may occur when alcohol is ingested during metronidazole therapy.
What is metronidazole?
- Metronidazole is an antibiotic. It fights bacteria in your body.
- Metronidazole is used to treat infections such as abdominal infections, skin and tissue infections, bone and joint infections, gynecologic infections, and respiratory tract infections.
- Metronidazole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking metronidazole?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- liver disease,
- a stomach or intestinal disease, or
- epilepsy or another seizure disorder.
- You may not be able to take metronidazole, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of these conditions.
- Metronidazole is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely to harm an unborn baby. Do not, however, take metronidazole without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Metronidazole passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take metronidazole?
- Take metronidazole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- Take all of the metronidazole that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
- Store metronidazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Take the rest of the day's doses at evenly spaced intervals unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a metronidazole overdose include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of coordination, numbness and tingling, and seizures.
What should I avoid while taking metronidazole?
- Do not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, and vomiting may occur when alcohol is ingested during metronidazole therapy.
- Be aware of the alcohol content of other products such as cough and cold medicines. Alcohol in these products can also cause a reaction.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.