Metronidazole: What It Treats, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you hear metronidazole, a broad-spectrum antibiotic and antiprotozoal drug used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites. Also known as Flagyl, it's one of the most prescribed drugs for stubborn infections that other antibiotics can't touch. It doesn’t just kill bacteria—it targets the DNA of organisms that thrive without oxygen, making it essential for infections deep in the gut, pelvis, or even the brain.

Metronidazole is often the go-to for bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of natural bacteria, and trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted parasite infection. It’s also used after dental work, for abdominal infections like diverticulitis, and even in combination with other drugs to treat stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori. But it’s not a cure-all—misuse leads to resistance, and mixing it with alcohol can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and a pounding headache. That’s why knowing when to use it—and when not to—is just as important as the prescription itself.

You’ll find posts here that dig into real-life scenarios: how to avoid yeast infections after taking metronidazole, what to do if you miss a dose, and how it compares to other antibiotics like doxycycline or clindamycin. Some articles warn about hidden interactions—like how it can mess with blood thinners or antidepressants. Others show how patients manage side effects like metallic taste or numbness in hands and feet. This isn’t just a drug guide—it’s a practical toolkit for anyone who’s been prescribed metronidazole, or is worried about what comes next after taking it. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or just trying to understand why your doctor chose this drug over others, the posts below give you the clear, no-fluff facts you need to stay safe and informed.