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can flagyl make you sick

by Abagail Weimann Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Metronidazole side effects are notorious for causing an upset stomach and killing your appetite. For many people, the nausea -- and even vomiting -- can occur just from the bad taste. Heartburn, constipation, and diarrhea can occur, too.Jul 14, 2022

Does Flagyl taste bad?

The antibiotics listed above may affect the absorption of zinc, and zinc deficiency leads to a metallic bad taste in the mouth. Clarithromycin ( Biaxin ), metronidazole ( Flagyl ), and tetracycline are other antibiotics that may also cause metallic taste—but we don’t know why that occurs.

Why no alcohol with Flagyl?

  • Drinking on some antibiotics, like metronidazole (Flagyl) and Bactrim, can cause vomiting, cramping, and rapid heart rate.
  • Though some antibiotics, like amoxicillin, don't warn against alcohol, drinking can worsen side effects.
  • In most cases, you can safely drink alcohol again three days after the last dose of antibiotics.

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Can you drink alcohol with Flagyl?

While not all antibiotics interact with alcohol, drinking while using certain types — including Flagyl — can have serious health consequences. People should generally avoid alcohol for up to 3 days after the last dose of Flagyl. In this article, we look at what Flagyl is and the risks of mixing it with alcohol.

What do you need to know about Flagyl?

  • A headache, nausea, diarrhea, flushing, an unpleasant metallic taste, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage to fingers and toes), or a rash are common side effects. ...
  • Cases of encephalopathy and peripheral neuropathy have been reported with metronidazole.
  • Do not crush, break, or chew extended-release Flagyl tablets. ...

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What are the most common side effects of Flagyl?

Dizziness, headache, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, or metallic taste in your mouth may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This medication may cause your urine to turn darker in color.

How long will side effects from flagyl last?

How long do Metronidazole side effects last? Most Metronidazole side effects shouldn't last that long. Usually, they will start from relatively soon after you take a tablet, and should be over in between 30 minutes to several hours (or potentially longer), depending on the type of side effect you experience.

How can I reduce the side effects of Flagyl?

How to avoid metronidazole side effectsTake metronidazole as directed. ... Take metronidazole with food. ... Avoid alcohol and alcohol-containing products when taking metronidazole. ... Finish the entire treatment regimen. ... Spread doses evenly throughout the day.More items...•

Does Flagyl have serious side effects?

The most serious adverse reactions reported in patients treated with metronidazole have been convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis, optic and peripheral neuropathy, the latter characterized mainly by numbness or paresthesia of an extremity.

How do you stop feeling sick when taking metronidazole?

There are things you can do to help cope with them:Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting) Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. ... Diarrhoea. Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. ... A metallic taste in your mouth or a furry tongue.

How long until Flagyl is out of your system?

Flagyl may be cleared from your body within 48 hours, but the elimination rate varies depending on a person's age and metabolism, among other factors. The Flagyl manufacturer recommends waiting at least one day after the last dose of Flagyl before drinking alcohol.

How do you know Flagyl is working?

Metronidazole starts to work 1 to 2 hours after you take it, because it is quickly absorbed, and it reaches its maximum concentration after 20 minutes to 3 hours. But it may take a couple of days before you start to feel better or notice an improvement in your symptoms.

What foods should you avoid while taking metronidazole?

Alcohol, avocados, bananas, chocolate, salamiDo not mix these items with drugs such as metronidazole (Flagyl) and linezolid (Zyvox), used to treat bacterial infections.These foods, along with tap beer, red wine, and sherry, contain tyramine, an amino acid that can cause blood pressure to spike if taken with linezolid.

What if you throw up after taking metronidazole?

But, if you are sick (vomit) and it is more than 30 minutes after having a dose of metronidazole, you do not need to take another dose. Wait until the next usual dose. If you are vomiting and are worried, contact your doctor or HealthLine (0800 611 116) for advice.

Is Flagyl a strong antibiotic?

It's a potent drug in the nitroimidazole class used to treat bacterial infections of the: stomach and intestine. skin.

What STD does Flagyl treat?

Trichomoniasis in women is characterized by a diffuse, malodorous, yellow-green discharge and vulvar irritation. As with bacterial vaginosis, vaginal trichomoniasis may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Trichomoniasis is treated with oral metronidazole (Flagyl).

Can I take Flagyl on empty stomach?

Flagyl S suspension should be taken at least one hour before a meal or food. This medicine works better if taken on an empty stomach.

Can Flagyl cause neurological problems?

Though it is well tolerated in common setting, patient may experience serious neurologic side effects in both long term and short term use. This includes peripheral neuropathy, cerebellar dysfunction, visual impairment, vestibulotoxicity, cochleotoxicity, ataxic gait, dysarthria, seizures and encephalopathy [1–6].

Does Flagyl cause gas and bloating?

Flagyl is sometimes prescribed for excessive gas and diarrhea. It is an antibiotics that works well on certain bacteria that accumulates in the GI tract and contributes to the gas and the bloating.

Does Flagyl make you anxious?

Flagyl can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and is known to cause central nervous system (CNS) side effects that can worsen with high doses. Common ones include: Irritability, dizziness, or confusion.

Can Flagyl cause fatigue?

Call your doctor right away if you have confusion, drowsiness, fever, a general feeling of illness, a headache, loss of appetite, nausea, a stiff neck or back, or vomiting.

When was Flagyl last updated?

Last updated on July 24, 2020. Note: This document contains side effect information about metronidazole. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Flagyl.

What are the side effects of metronidazole?

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking metronidazole: More common. Agitation. back pain.

What are the side effects of a syringe?

The most serious side effects reported were convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis, optic neuropathy, and peripheral neuropathy (characterized by numbness/paresthesia of an extremity).

Does metronidazole go away?

Some side effects of metronidazole may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Is metronidazole safe for rats?

Metronidazole has been shown to be carcinogenic in mice and rats. Unnecessary use of the drug should be avoided. Its use should be reserved only for conditions for which it is approved.

What are the side effects of Flagyl?

Common side effects of Flagyl, Flagyl ER, and Flagyl Injection include: a metallic taste in the mouth or changes in taste. Uncomfortable side effects that may become serious are: seizures. Serious but unlikely side effects of Flagyl include: painful urination.

What is the strength of Flagyl?

Flagyl is supplied in 250 and 500 mg strength tablets, Flagyl ER is available in 750 mg strength tablets, and Flagyl Injection in 500 mg strength in a buffered 100 ml vial. Dosage is quite variable and dependent upon the severity of disease and other considerations made by the treating physician. Most of the serious side effects may occur with any of these three preparations of Flagyl. Flagyl may cause liver enzyme levels to increase; lithium and creatinine levels should be checked to avoid lithium toxicity or renal compromise.

Does metronidazole prolong QT?

Cardiovascular: QT prolongation has been reported, particularly when metronidazole was administered with drugs with the potential for prolonging the QT interval. Flattening of the T-wave may be seen in electrocardiographic tracings.

Does flagyl cause liver problems?

Most of the serious side effects may occur with any of these three preparations of Flagyl. Flagyl may cause liver enzyme levels to increase ; lithium and creatinine levels should be checked to avoid lithium toxicity or renal compromise.

Can you take flagyl with alcohol?

Alcohol may increase the side effects of Flagyl. Patients on disulfiram should not take Flagyl until they have had a two week interval without taking disulfiram, especially alcoholic patients, to avoid psychotic reactions.

Can metronidazole cause liver problems?

Metronidazole can cause life-threatening liver problems in people with Cockayne syndrome. If you have this condition, stop taking metronidazole and contact your doctor if you have signs of liver failure --nausea, stomach pain (upper right side), dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Can you use flagyl while pregnant?

Treatment in pregnant women (during first 3 months is not advised) or women who are breastfeeding should only be done if the benefits outweigh the potential problems. Flagyl passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Except for use in amebiasis, studies in pediatric patients are not available; Flagyl ER has no pediatric studies.

Why is flagyl not used in pregnancy?

Flagyl and Flagyl ER should not be used in early pregnancy because of potential adverse effects on the fetus. Flagyl and Flagyl ER are excreted in breast milk. Because of potential adverse effects on the newborn, females who are nursing should not use metronidazole.

What is flagyl used for?

Flagyl, generic name metronidazole, is an antibiotic prescribed for the treatment of parasites and anaerobic bacteria. Review side effects, dosage, drug interactions, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety information prior to using these antibiotics.

What is Flagyl (metronidazole), and what is it used for?

Flagyl and Flagyl Extended Release ( metronidazole) is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections including

What drugs interact with Flagyl (metronidazole)?

Psychotic reactions have been reported in alcoholic patients who are using metronidazole and disulfiram concurrently. Metronidazole should not be given to patients who have taken disulfiram within the last two weeks.

What are the side effects of metronidazole?

The most serious adverse reactions reported in patients treated with metronidazole have been convulsive seizures, encephalopathy, aseptic meningitis, optic and peripheral neuropathy, the latter characterized mainly by numbness or paresthesia of an extremity.

How to report a drug problem to the FDA?

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-10 88. Medically Reviewed on 2/13/2020.

Is flagyl a good antibiotic?

Flagyl is a useful antibiotic and is generally well tolerated with appropriate use.

What is flagyl used for?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic means "living without air".

How long does Flagyl last?

For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten days, or even longer. Do not use Flagyl to treat infections other than the one you have been prescribed for. Flagyl has no activity against viruses (such as those that cause a cold or flu).

How long after stopping Flagyl can you drink alcohol?

Flagyl is an antibiotic that is particularly effective at treating infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and parasites. Avoid alcohol while taking Flagyl and for three days after stopping it.

How does metronidazole affect DNA?

Once absorbed, metronidazole diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cell death. However, the exact way metronidazole works is unknown.

What class is Flagyl?

Flagyl belongs to the class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles.

Can you take Flagyl over the counter?

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication, including that bought over-the-counter, because it may not be compatible with Flagyl. Do not take Flagyl if you have taken disulfiram (Antabuse) within the past two weeks.

Can you give flagyl to a pregnant woman?

Flagyl should not be given to women during the first trimester of pregnancy. Weigh up risks versus benefits of giving Flagyl during other trimesters.

Answers

No, nausea and vomiting are considered serious side effects and you must contact your Dr. asap.

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How to take metronidazole tablets?

Swallow metronidazole tablets with plenty of water. Take them with a meal or a snack.

What is metronidazole?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of infections caused by certain types of germ (anaerobic bacteria) and types of micro-organisms called protozoa. These types of organisms often cause infections in areas of the body such as the gums, pelvic cavity and tummy (stomach or intestines) because they do not need oxygen to grow and multiply.

How long after taking metronidazole can you drink?

Important: do not drink alcohol while you are on metronidazole and for 48 hours after finishing your course of treatment. This is because drinking alcohol with metronidazole is likely to make you feel very sick (nauseated) and cause other unpleasant effects, such as the sensation of having a 'thumping heart' (palpitations), hot flushes and headache.

What to do if you forget to take a med?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and try to space your remaining doses evenly throughout the rest of the day. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Is metronidazole available as a skin preparation?

Metronidazole is available as a skin preparation also . This leaflet does not give information about metronidazole when it is used for skin conditions, but there is more information available in a separate leaflet called Metronidazole skin gel and cream.

Can you take metronidazole if you have stomach pain?

However, if you also experience tummy (abdominal) pain, or if you feel sick (nausea) or feel generally unwell, you should let your doctor know. If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with metronidazole.

Can you take metronidazole if you are allergic to penicillin?

It is also prescribed before gynaecological surgery and surgery on the intestines, to prevent infection from developing. It can safely be taken by people who are allergic to penicillin.

Answers

I would definitely call your doctor regarding the antibiotics or with any questions you might have about you health. In my personal experience, every time I have a flare my doctor puts me on Flagyl (Metronidazole) and Cipro.

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What are the side effects of a syringe?

increased volume of pale, dilute urine. joint or muscle pain. loss of bladder control. red skin lesions, often with a purple center. red, irritated eyes. redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest. redness of the skin. Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention.

Can medicine cause side effects?

Side Effects. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

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For The Consumer

For Healthcare Professionals

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache disorder
  • Anorexia
  • Abdominal pain with cramps

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache disorder
  • Anorexia
  • Abdominal pain with cramps
  • Alcohol intolerance
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Dysgeusia
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Xerostomia


If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Stomach upset
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting


If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Stomach upset
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Metallic taste in your mouth

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including

  • Signs of a new infection
  • Easy bruising/bleeding
  • Stomach/abdominal pain
  • Painful urination

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including

  • Unsteadiness
  • Seizures
  • Mental/mood changes
  • Trouble speaking
  • Numbness/tingling of arms/legs
  • Eye pain
  • Sudden vision changes
  • Headache that is severe or doesn't go away
  • Stiff/painful neck

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including

  • Rash
  • Itching/swelling
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

Other things to note

  • This medication may cause your urine to turn darker in color. This effect is harmless and will disappear when the medication is stopped.
  • Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Further Information

How It Works

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Applies to metronidazole: oral capsule, oral powder for suspension, oral tablet Other dosage forms: 1. intravenous solution
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Upsides

  • Applies to metronidazole: compounding powder, intravenous powder for injection, intravenous solution, oral capsule, oral suspension, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release
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Downsides

Bottom Line

  • Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA. Medical Disclaimer
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Tips

  1. Flagyl is a brand (trade) name for metronidazole. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic mea...
  2. Once absorbed, Flagyl (metronidazole) diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cel…
  1. Flagyl is a brand (trade) name for metronidazole. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that may be used in the treatment of anaerobic infections caused by susceptible bacteria or parasites. Anaerobic mea...
  2. Once absorbed, Flagyl (metronidazole) diffuses into susceptible organisms, where it becomes active and detrimentally affects DNA synthesis and degradation in the organism, causing cell death. Howev...
  3. Flagyl belongs to the class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles.

Response and Effectiveness

  1. Has good penetration into tissue and may be used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria that occur in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary area, in th...
  2. Active against the following types of bacteria: gram-positive anaerobes (Clostridium species, Eubacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species); gram-negative an…
  1. Has good penetration into tissue and may be used in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria that occur in the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary area, in th...
  2. Active against the following types of bacteria: gram-positive anaerobes (Clostridium species, Eubacterium species, Peptococcus species, Peptostreptococcus species); gram-negative anaerobes (some Ba...
  3. May be used in the treatment of symptomatic and asymptomatic T. vaginalis infections. Male sexual partners of people with Trichomoniasisinfections should be treated simultaneously; isolating the or...
  4. May be used in the treatment of acute intestinal amebiasis (amebic dysentery) and amebic li…

Interactions

  • If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: 1. A headache, nausea, diarrhea, flushing, an unpleasant metallic taste, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage to fingers and toes), or a rash are common side effects. Rarely, seizures may occ...
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References

  • Flagyl is an antibiotic that is particularly effective at treating infections caused by susceptible anaerobic bacteria and parasites. Avoid alcohol while taking Flagyl and for three days after stop...
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Further Information

  1. May be taken with or without food.
  2. Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. For some infections, Flagyl may be given as a single dose. For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten days, or e...
  3. Avoid alcohol or products containing propylene glycol (found in some flavored iced teas, fros…
  1. May be taken with or without food.
  2. Take exactly as directed and for the duration intended. For some infections, Flagyl may be given as a single dose. For other types of infections, it may need to be taken for seven to ten days, or e...
  3. Avoid alcohol or products containing propylene glycol (found in some flavored iced teas, frostings, and salad dressings) while taking Flagyl, and for three days after the course of Flagyl has finis...
  4. Seek medical advice if numbness, pain, or sensitivity occurs in your fingers or toes, or if you notice any skin color changes in these areas. Also, talk to your doctor if you develop a furry-feelin...

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