Antibiotic and Antiparasitic (Nitroimidazole)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria and parasites in your body — it stops them from growing and multiplying, which helps your body fight off the infection.
Inhibits anaerobic bacterial and protozoal DNA synthesis by being reduced to reactive intermediates that damage DNA strands, preventing nucleic acid replication and causing organism death.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most infections, adults take 400mg (one 400mg tablet) three times a day for 7 days. Swallow with a full glass of water. You can take it with or after food to reduce stomach upset. For amoeba infections, your doctor may prescribe 800mg (two 400mg tablets) three times daily for 5-10 days. Always complete the full course even if you feel better.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Do not drink any alcohol — not even palm wine, ogogoro, or beer — while on this drug, as the reaction can be very serious. Always complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better after 2-3 days, otherwise the infection can come back stronger. Buy only from a reputable pharmacy — brands like Flagyl, Ausgyl, Amibagyl, or Avrogyl — and avoid buying from roadside vendors or open markets where storage may be poor.
Alcohol — DO NOT drink alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after finishing, as it can cause severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and flushing. Blood thinners like warfarin — metronidazole can increase bleeding risk, so inform your doctor. Lithium — if you take lithium for mental health, metronidazole can increase its levels dangerously.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Metronidazole with your other drugs?
Metronidazole is generally not recommended during the first three months of pregnancy; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this drug.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or inside hot cars. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Metronidazole?
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