Metronidazole Tablets 400mg

What are Metronidazole 400mg Tablets?

Metronidazole 400mg Tablets are one of the medications to treat the bacterial infection, bacterial vaginosis (BV).

This antibiotic works by preventing the growth of certain bacteria and parasites and helps to prevent further infections. It is a fast-acting antibiotic, but it can take a day or so to feel better. 

How long does it take for metronidazole to work? 

Metronidazole is a fast-acting antibiotic. While it begins working against the bacteria immediately, it may take 24 to 48 hours before you notice a significant improvement in your symptoms.

How to take metronidazole 400mg?

For Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), metronidazole 400mg is typically taken either as a single high dose (five 400mg tablets at once) or as a 5-to-7-day course (one tablet twice daily). Tablets should be swallowed whole with water during or just after a meal. Always finish the full course prescribed, even if you feel better sooner.

Metronidazole should be prescribed and administered carefully to avoid antibiotic/bacterial resistance. You must complete a full course of this medication. Your doctor will tell you the length of your antibiotic course according to your requirements and the illness being treated.

• Take this tablet orally; swallow the whole tablet with water.
• This medicine should be taken during or right after a meal.
• Do not chew or crush the tablets, as this will increase the risk of side effects.
• Do not stop taking your medication in the middle of the course, even if you feel better.

Can you drink on Metronidazole? 

No. You must not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after your final dose. Mixing the two can cause a "disulfiram-like reaction," resulting in severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, headaches, and palpitations.

You can download a copy of the Metronidazole 400mg tablet patient information leaflet here.

How to use Metronidazole Tablets

Metronidazole 400mg tablets can be taken as a single 2g dose ( Five tablets) or as a week's course of 2 tablets once a day.

Can I drink alcohol whilst using Metronidazole?

Metronidazole can interact with alcohol, causing you to feel very unwell. You should not drink whilst taking metronidazole tablets or using metronidazole gel, and for 48 hours after the last dose.

Does Metronidazole make you tired? 

Dizziness and fatigue are listed as potential side effects of metronidazole. While it doesn't make everyone sleepy, you should see how the medication affects you before driving or operating machinery.

Side Effects of Metronidazole

Some common side effects of Metronidazole are nausea, abdominal cramps, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, weight loss (anorexia), dizziness, dry mouth, dark-colored urine, or a metallic taste in the mouth or changes in taste.

Some rare side effects of this drug include fever, pain with urination, mouth sores, tingling or pricking sensations that may become permanent, seizures, unsteadiness and mood changes. 

Call your doctor or go to the hospital immediately if your side effects do not go away.

How long do metronidazole side effects last? 

Most common side effects, such as a metallic taste, nausea, or dark urine, are temporary and should disappear once the course of antibiotics is finished. If side effects are severe or persist after you stop taking the medication, you should consult your doctor.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the above description and patient information leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for “MHRA yellowcard” in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.