Flagyl (Metronidazole)

Do's

• The dosage of Flagyl is determined by your medical condition, the type of infection being treated, and your response to therapy. 
• For children, the dose of Flagyl is also based on weight.
• The recommended dose for adults is typically 400 mg taken two or three times a day, but your specific dose may vary.
• Take Flagyl regularly and exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Continue taking the medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms improve after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a relapse of the infection.
• If using the suspension form of Flagyl, shake the bottle well before each dose and carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon as it may not provide the correct dose.
• Flagyl tablets should be swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking them.
• To prevent stomach upset, Flagyl should be taken with food or a full glass of water or milk.
• Take Flagyl at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day. Taking the medication at the same time(s) every day can help you remember to take it.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition persists or worsens while taking Flagyl.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Abdominal cramps
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Rash
• Itching
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Mouth sores
• Swollen, red, or "hairy" tongue
• Depression
• Trouble sleeping
• Irritability
• Weakness
• Nasal congestion
• Flushing
• Vaginal dryness

Serious Side Effects:

• Signs of a new infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever)
• Easy bruising/bleeding
• Stomach/abdominal pain
• Painful urination
• Unsteadiness
• Seizures
• Mental/mood changes (such as confusion)
• Trouble speaking
• Numbness/tingling of arms/legs
• Eye problems
• Liver problems (nausea, stomach pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice)
• Central nervous system side effects (dizziness, trouble focusing, etc.)

Consult a healthcare provider if any of these side effects are experienced Moreover, individuals should inform their healthcare provider about any side effects and seek medical advice if they are severe or persistent.

Flagyl is contraindicated in patients with a prior history of hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole derivatives.

In patients with trichomoniasis, Flagyl Tablets is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy.

The use of Flagyl is associated with psychotic reactions in alcoholic patients who were using disulfiram concurrently. Therefore, Flagyl should not be administered to patients who have taken disulfiram within the last two weeks.

Discontinue consumption of alcoholic beverages or products containing propylene glycol while taking Flagyl and for at least three days afterward because abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and flushing may occur.

Patients with hepatic impairment metabolize metronidazole slowly, with resultant accumulation of metronidazole in the plasma. The dosage or the frequency of administration of Flagyl should be reduced in patients with severe hepatic impairment. 

Patients with hepatic impairment should be monitored for metronidazole-associated adverse events.

Patients with end-stage renal disease may require dosage adjustments when taking Flagyl.

There is no specific antidote for metronidazole overdose; therefore, management of the patient should consist of symptomatic and supportive therapy.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. In addition, individuals should keep a written list of all prescription and nonprescription medicines they are taking and bring it with them each time they visit a doctor or are admitted to a hospital.

These warnings and precautions are essential to consider before using Flagyl, and individuals should seek medical advice if they have any concerns about its use.