Metronidazole
Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antimicrobial used to treat bacterial vaginosis. The one product listed here is Flagyl Er, available as 200 mg and 400 mg extended-release tablets.
Key points
- Beyond vaginal infections, metronidazole treats trichomoniasis, amebiasis, giardiasis, and other anaerobic bacterial infections throughout the body.
- Flagyl Er is the extended-release form, releasing the medicine over a longer period so levels stay steady rather than peaking and falling.
- Metronidazole carries a boxed warning that it may cause cancer in laboratory animals, though follow-up studies in treated patients have not shown increased cancer incidence.
How does Metronidazole work?
Metronidazole enters the bacteria or parasite and disrupts its DNA. Once the genetic material is damaged, the organism can no longer produce the proteins it needs to survive, and it dies. Flagyl Er is the extended-release form, so the medicine is released over a longer period rather than all at once. It is listed here under Women’s Health for bacterial vaginosis, though metronidazole works against bacteria that thrive without oxygen and against certain parasites elsewhere in the body.
Further reading
What is metronidazole used for?
Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial vaginosis. It also treats trichomoniasis, amoebiasis, giardiasis and other anaerobic bacterial infections.
How does metronidazole kill bacteria and parasites?
Metronidazole enters bacteria or parasites and disrupts their DNA. The damaged organism can no longer produce the proteins it needs to survive, so it dies.
How long does metronidazole take to work?
Metronidazole usually starts to work within 1 to 2 hours, and its effect lasts about 24 hours.
What are the side effects of metronidazole?
Common side effects include nausea, a metallic taste and headache. Serious side effects that need immediate medical attention include aseptic meningitis, peripheral neuropathy and seizures. Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you notice any of these.
Can I drink alcohol while taking metronidazole?
Alcohol interacts with metronidazole, so you should not drink alcohol while taking it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
What metronidazole products are available?
On Direct Meds, metronidazole comes as Flagyl ER. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What are other names for metronidazole?
Metronidazole is also sold under brand names such as Flagyl. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare products.
How much does metronidazole cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Do I need a prescription for metronidazole in South Africa?
No, not online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order metronidazole. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy metronidazole online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →