Antibiotic and Antiparasitic (Nitroimidazole)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria and parasites in your body, stopping 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.
Stomach infections (amoeba), diarrhea caused by germs, dental infections, vaginal infections, wound infections, stomach ulcer (works alongside other drugs to kill the H. pylori bacteria), pelvic infections, infections after surgery
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
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 such as 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
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
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.