Flagyl (metronidazole): what it treats and how to use it safely

Flagyl is the brand name for metronidazole, an antibiotic that fights certain bacteria and parasites. You’ll see it for infections like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, giardiasis, and anaerobic infections after dental work or surgery. Knowing how it works, common side effects, and safety steps will help you avoid surprises.

How Flagyl works and common uses

Metronidazole kills organisms that thrive without oxygen (anaerobes) and some protozoa. Typical uses include bacterial vaginosis (often 500 mg twice daily for 7 days) and a single 2 g dose sometimes used for trichomoniasis. For giardiasis or other intestinal parasites, shorter courses or different dosing like 250–500 mg three times daily for 5–7 days are common. Always follow your clinician’s instructions because dosing can change with the infection and your health.

Safety tips, side effects, interactions, and buying advice

Drink no alcohol while taking Flagyl and for 48 hours after the last dose — mixing them can cause flushing, nausea, vomiting, and fast heartbeat. Expect common side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, metallic taste, headache, or dark urine (dark urine is usually harmless but can alarm people). If you get numbness, tingling, or severe headache, tell your doctor; long use can rarely cause nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy).

Flagyl can interact with other medicines. It may increase the effect of warfarin (raising bleeding risk), and it can change levels of some seizure drugs. If you’re on anticoagulants, seizure meds, lithium, or have liver disease, mention it before starting metronidazole. Avoid driving or heavy machinery if you feel dizzy.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding need a short talk with your provider. Current guidance often allows metronidazole when the benefit outweighs risk, but your doctor will pick the safest option and timing.

Want to buy Flagyl online? Remember it’s a prescription drug in many countries. Use only licensed pharmacies with clear contact info and a verified pharmacist. Red flags: no prescription required, prices that look too good to be true, no physical address, or poor customer reviews. Ask for original packaging and a pharmacy phone number you can call.

Finish the full course even if you feel better early. Stopping too soon can let the infection return or become harder to treat. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture and light. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose — don’t double up.

If symptoms get worse, you develop a rash, severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, signs of bleeding, or new nerve symptoms, contact your provider or local emergency care. Use Flagyl the way your clinician prescribes, avoid alcohol, and check with a pharmacist or doctor about any other medicines you take.