Mixing Metronidazole and Alcohol: Risk and Side Effects

Metronidazole, commonly available under the brand name Flagyl, is a powerful antibiotic and antiparasitic used to treat skin and mouth-related infections. If you have just been prescribed this medication, then a question you might have is what happens if you drink alcohol with metronidazole. Typically, metronidazole comes with a warning to avoid taking alcohol while on it. While this is common for most medications, the metronidazole and alcohol interaction is a little bit different from other combinations. We shall explore this in the article.

The Risks of Mixing Metronidazole with Alcohol

A metronidazole and alcohol combination is not advisable. In fact, there have been reports of even a fatality that can be traced back to this combination. However, the research is not clear, as some do not have any reactions whatsoever when they drink alcohol while taking metronidazole, while others report more severe reactions known as a “disulfiram-like reaction,” which is commonly observed among those who take the medication disulfiram (Antabuse) while drinking alcohol. It causes some unpleasant reactions as it prevents the body from breaking down alcohol and leads to the build-up of a toxin known as acetaldehyde. Hence, it is also known as the “acetaldehyde syndrome.”

This is why disulfiram is prescribed for those struggling with alcohol use disorder; however, it is only to be taken under safely supervised conditions, as the side effects can range from vomiting to something as serious as seizures, slowed breathing, and arrhythmic heartbeat.

So, what can be said about the metronidazole or flagyl and alcohol reaction is that the research thus far is not conclusive. While there can be severe reactions, it can be overstated a bit as well. But generally, the recommendation is to avoid this combination because of the unique effects metronidazole and alcohol interactions can give rise to.

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Identifying the Side Effects of Metronidazole and Alcohol Interaction

As we mentioned before, the metronidazole and alcohol combination can give rise to something known as a disulfiram-like reaction. If you are wondering what this reaction looks like, then the most commonly recognizable metronidazole-alcohol side effects are as follows:

• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Flushing of the skin - especially of the face and upper chest regions.
• Lightheadedness and fainting
• Chest pain
• Slow or fast breathing rates
• Arrhythmic heartbeat
• Seizures

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How Alcohol Affects Your Health When Taking Metronidazole?

It is recommended to completely avoid alcohol when taking metronidazole. It can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, so the metronidazole and alcohol combination is known as a contraindication. A contraindication refers to anything you need to avoid while taking a prescription medication, as it can lead to adverse effects.

While some aspects of research say that this combination does not lead to problems, the warnings are largely based on laboratory and animal studies, so experts implore you to err on the side of caution.

If you drink alcohol or are struggling with an alcohol use disorder and have been prescribed metronidazole either as an antibiotic or antiparasitic, then you need to be open with your doctor. Be honest, and make sure to follow their instructions to a tee. If you experience any of the “disulfiram-like” side effects, then contact your doctor or emergency providers (like 9-1-1) immediately. 

How Long Should You Wait After Taking Metronidazole Before Drinking Alcohol?

Based on the half-life of metronidazole, it has been estimated that the medication lasts for 50 hours in your body. However, this can differ based on the dosage, frequency, and other personal factors like metabolism rate, body weight, pre-existing liver and kidney conditions, and so on.

So, it is recommended that you wait at least 50 hours or 2.5 days before you take alcohol after the last dose of metronidazole. In some cases, we understand that this is easier said than done, especially if you are struggling with alcoholism or alcohol use disorder. However, know that the care you need and deserve is available for you.

At Design For Recovery, we offer premier sober living facilities for young men struggling with substance use disorders. Our sober living services are characterized by a structured environment, clinical expertise, and an understanding community that will be with you in your journey toward recovery. Reach out to us today, and you never have to feel alone again.