Flagyl 10 emätinpuikko

Flagyl is the branded formulation of metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites. It is used for a wide range of infections including bacterial vaginosis, Clostridioides difficile infection, dental infections, intra-abdominal infections, and giardiasis. Metronidazole is also used in combination regimens for Helicobacter pylori eradication. It works by disrupting the DNA of susceptible organisms once activated inside their cells.

How to Take Flagyl

Take Flagyl (metronidazole) with or after food to reduce stomach irritation. Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. Take at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day to keep blood levels consistent.

The dose and duration depend on the infection being treated. For common infections such as bacterial vaginosis or dental infections, a short course of 400 mg twice daily for five to seven days is typical. For giardia or amoebiasis, higher doses or longer courses may be prescribed.

Always complete the full course, even if symptoms improve beforehand. Stopping early risks the infection returning and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Alcohol Is Strictly Forbidden

Do not drink alcohol during treatment with Flagyl and for at least 48 hours after your last dose. Metronidazole blocks the breakdown of alcohol in the body, causing an extremely unpleasant reaction: severe flushing, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Even small amounts of alcohol trigger this reaction.

Dose depends on the infection: 400 mg two to three times daily for most infections. C. difficile: 400 mg three times daily for 10 to 14 days. Bacterial vaginosis: 400 mg twice daily for 5 to 7 days, or 2 g as a single dose.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea (very common — take with food)
• Metallic or bitter taste in the mouth
• Headache
• Dark-coloured urine (harmless — caused by a breakdown product of metronidazole)
• Digestive discomfort, diarrhoea, or stomach cramps

Less Common but Important Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, or a peripheral tingling or numbness (neuropathy) can occur, particularly with high doses or long courses. If you notice numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands or feet, contact your doctor. In rare cases, Flagyl can affect the central nervous system, causing confusion, coordination problems, or seizures, particularly with very high doses. These effects are uncommon at standard doses but should be reported immediately if they occur.

Do not drink alcohol during treatment or for at least 48 hours after finishing, as the combination causes severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, and palpitations (disulfiram-like reaction). Prolonged courses may rarely cause peripheral neuropathy.

Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles.