Antibiotics & You
← All antibiotics
Nitroimidazoles

Metronidazole

Dental infectionsBacterial vaginosisPelvic infectionsSome gut infections
Start a diary for this antibiotic
Usually prescribed for:Dental infection and abscessBacterial vaginosis

Information follows NICE antimicrobial prescribing guidance and the BNF.

Common side effects

  • Metallic taste
  • Feeling sick
  • Loss of appetite
  • Furry tongue

How often each one happens varies by medicine and product, so check your leaflet. Many are mild, but ask your pharmacist or doctor if they are troublesome or do not settle.

Less common side effects

  • Being sick
  • Headache
  • Dark urine
  • Diarrhoea

Get medical help straight away if you notice

  • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
  • Fits (seizures)
  • Severe allergic reaction

Taking it safely

  • Do not drink alcohol during the course or for 48 hours afterwards — it can cause flushing and vomiting.
  • Take after food.

Report a side effect

You can report any suspected side effect to the UK Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.