Not everyone who uses Metronidazole will experience side effects, but some will. Side effects are less likely when using a low dose (such as the dose for bacterial vaginosis) and when using it with or after food.

Side effects of unknown frequency:

- Numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the arms or legs

- An unpleasant taste in the mouth

- A furred tongue

- Feeling sick (nausea)

- Being sick (vomiting)

- An upset stomach

- Diarrhoea

- Appetite loss

- Fever

- Feeling depressed

- Pain in your eyes (optic neuritis)

Rare side effects:

- Anaphylactic reactions

- Abnormal laboratory test results

- Blood and bone marrow problems (these may be fatal)

- Brain and central nervous system problems (including neurological problems): seek medical advice if you have symptoms such as fever, paralysis, photosensitivity, balance or coordination problems, a stiff neck, tremors, or epileptic seizures

- Convulsions

- Double vision

- Eye or eyesight problems

- Feeling dizzy

- Feeling drowsy

- Flushing

- Headaches

- Itching

- Jaundice

- Joint pain

- Liver problems

- Muscle pain or tenderness

- Myopia

- Pancreatitis

- Psychotic problems including confusion and hallucinations

- Skin problems

- Skin rash

- Urine colour changes

If you experience any serious side effects, you should contact your doctor for further advice.

If you suffer a severe allergic reaction (if you’re having difficult breathing, for example), you should go to your local A&E department.

How to take Metronidazole to treat BV

Take 1 oral tablet twice daily for 7 days. Metronidazole should be taken with or after food.

Always ensure that you complete the course, even if you think your symptoms have improved. This will help to prevent the infection from coming back.

You should avoid alcohol while taking Metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after your course has finished. Alcohol can cause a serious interaction with Metronidazole that results in nausea and

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.11952.pdf