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What to do if I accidentally drank alcohol while taking Metronidazole?

By FactsAboutFood
Page last updated: 09/08/2022 | Next review date: 09/08/2024
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In this brief article, we will answer the question, “What to do if I accidentally drank alcohol while taking Metronidazole?” and provide information on what exactly is Metronidazole, how long can you avoid alcohol after taking them as well as the effects of mixing alcohol and Metronidazole.

What to do if I accidentally drank alcohol while taking Metronidazole?

If you have accidentally drunk alcohol while taking Metronidazole, immediately consult a doctor. Certain dangerous reactions can occur in the body after both are consumed together. If someone you know is experiencing severe reactions, call for help.

Even though there is not much research conducted on the reactions between alcohol and Metronidazole, there have been reports of serious reactions and even death being reported. 

There have been animal studies showing that there is no harm in mixing alcohol and Metronidazole. However, it is better to be safe and avoid mixing the two.

What exactly is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that also goes by the name Flagyl. It is used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections though it does not seem to be effective against viral infections.

It can sometimes be recommended to be consumed alongside other medications to treat ulcers or other bacterial infections.

Usually, this medication is taken orally by mouth through milk or water. It can be taken alongside food as well.

Some side effects associated with this medication include vomiting, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and diarrhea. Metallic aftertaste after swallowing the medicine is quite common.

Abdominal issues, seizures, vision issues, and tingling/ numbing sensations are some serious side effects that can be observed.

How long should I avoid alcohol after taking Metronidazole?

The FDA recommends waiting for 3 days to consume alcohol after taking the last dose of Metronidazole. If you do not have a healthy liver, you would need to wait for a longer duration to take alcohol. 

In some cases, Metronidazole can last for a week in an individual’s system especially if they have liver problems.

Individuals who take certain medications like cimetidine might need to extend their waiting period as such medications can increase the staying period of Metronidazole in the body.

What can occur when Metronidazole is mixed with alcohol?

When Metronidazole is mixed with alcohol, there can be certain unpleasant side effects observed. 

A racing heartbeat (tachycardia), increased breath rate, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, chest pain, and flushing of the face or chest can be observed. Serious side effects that can be observed are numbness in limbs, seizures, skin issues as well as pins and needle sensation.

Who is more sensitive to alcohol and Metronidazole reactions?

Older people are more sensitive to alcohol and Metronidazole induced side effects. This is because individuals who are older than 65 have a slower metabolism. Besides, they are likely to suffer from falls or accidents over alcohol use.

Females are also more likely to suffer more from alcohol and Metronidazole reactions as they have less body water content. This means that they would have higher blood alcohol levels even if they consume the same amount of alcohol as their male counterparts.

Individuals with liver issues can experience severe reactions from mixing alcohol and Metronidazole. This is because if the liver does not work properly, there can be an accumulation of alcohol in the body which can be fatal.

What are other medications that can interact with Metronidazole?

Certain cough syrups, lithium, medications containing alcohol, ritonavir, and lithium can be some medications that can interact with Metronidazole. Medications that contain disulfiram can also interact with Metronidazole.

What are some precautions to take before taking Metronidazole?

  • Make sure to consult your doctor before taking this medication. Inform them about your medical history like liver diseases or kidney diseases.
  • Do not drive or indulge in dangerous activities after you have taken Metronidazole. This is because Metronidazole can make you feel sleepy and drowsy.
  • Live vaccines might not work well if you are taking Metronidazole. Consult with your doctor if you have a vaccination appointment.
  • If you are planning to have surgery, make sure to inform your doctor regarding the products you use.
  • Do not take this medication during pregnancy without a doctor’s recommendation. In the case of lactating women too, it is best to talk to the doctor as this medication can be secreted in breast milk.

Conclusion

In this brief article, we have answered the question, “What to do if I accidentally drank alcohol while taking Metronidazole?” and provided information on what exactly is Metronidazole, how long can you avoid alcohol after taking them as well as the effects of mixing alcohol and Metronidazole.

Reference

https://www.goodrx.com/Metronidazole/drinking-alcohol-Metronidazole-safety

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6426/Metronidazole-oral/details