When taking metronidazole, it’s important to avoid certain substances that may interact with the medication and cause unwanted side effects.
Potential side effects
While taking metronidazole, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In some cases, metronidazole can also cause a metallic taste in the mouth or a dry mouth.
More serious side effects are rare but can include severe stomach pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
It’s also worth noting that alcohol should be avoided while taking metronidazole, as it can cause a severe reaction that includes flushing, headache, and rapid heart rate. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and report any side effects you may experience.
Medications to avoid
When taking metronidazole, it is important to be aware of certain medications that can interact poorly with it. Avoid combining metronidazole with:
| Medication | Potential Interaction |
|---|---|
| Warfarin (Coumadin) | Increased risk of bleeding due to decreased metabolism of warfarin |
| Lithium | Increased lithium levels in the body leading to toxicity |
| Phenytoin (Dilantin) | Reduced effectiveness of phenytoin leading to seizures |
Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before combining metronidazole with any other medications to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
Medications to avoid
While taking metronidazole, it is important to avoid certain medications that can interact with it and lead to adverse effects. Some medications that should be avoided include:
1. Warfarin: Taking warfarin with metronidazole can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to monitor your blood clotting time closely if you are taking both medications.
2. Phenobarbital: Phenobarbital can decrease the effectiveness of metronidazole, leading to reduced therapeutic effects. It is best to avoid taking these medications together.
3. Lithium: Metronidazole can increase the levels of lithium in the body, leading to toxic effects. It is important to monitor lithium levels closely if you are taking both medications concurrently.
4. Alcohol: Consuming alcohol while taking metronidazole can cause severe nausea, vomiting, headache, and other adverse effects. It is important to avoid alcohol during treatment with metronidazole.
It is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before taking any new medications or supplements while on metronidazole to prevent potential drug interactions and adverse effects.
Supplements and herbs
When taking metronidazole, it is important to be cautious with supplements and herbs as they may interact with the medication and cause adverse effects. Some supplements and herbs that can interact with metronidazole include:
- St. John’s Wort
- Ginseng
- Ginkgo biloba
- Echinacea
Before taking any supplements or herbs while on metronidazole, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential interactions.