What is the most important information I should know about Flagyl?

• Take all of the Flagyl that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Flagyl. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, and vomiting may occur when alcohol is ingested during Flagyl therapy.

What is Flagyl?

• Flagyl is an antibiotic. It fights bacteria in your body.
• Flagyl is used to treat infections such as abdominal infections, skin and tissue infections, bone and joint infections, gynecologic infections, and respiratory tract infections.
• Flagyl may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Flagyl?

• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
  • liver disease,
  • a stomach or intestinal disease, or
  • epilepsy or another seizure disorder.
• You may not be able to take Flagyl, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of these conditions.
• Flagyl is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely to harm an unborn baby. Do not, however, take Flagyl without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Flagyl passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Flagyl?

• Take Flagyl exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
• Take all of the Flagyl that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.
• Store Flagyl at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Use injectable Flagyl exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Take the rest of the day's doses at evenly spaced intervals unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a Flagyl overdose include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of coordination, numbness and tingling, and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Flagyl?

• Do not drink alcohol while taking Flagyl. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, and vomiting may occur when alcohol is ingested during Flagyl therapy.
• Be aware of the alcohol content of other products such as cough and cold medicines. Alcohol in these products can also cause a reaction.

What are the possible side effects of Flagyl?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Flagyl and seek emergency medical attention:
  • an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of your throat; or hives);
  • seizures;
  • numbness or tingling;
  • dizziness or loss of coordination; or
  • severe diarrhea.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Flagyl and talk to your doctor if you experience
  • darkening of your urine;
  • nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite;
  • an unpleasant metallic taste in your mouth;
  • constipation or mild diarrhea;
  • headache; or
  • swollen or sore tongue.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Flagyl?

• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
  • a barbiturate such as phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton), amobarbital (Amytal), or secobarbital (Seconal). These medicines may decrease the effects of Flagyl.
  • warfarin (Coumadin). Bleeding may occur if Flagyl and warfarin are used together.
  • phenytoin (Dilantin). Phenytoin may cause dangerous side effects when taken with Flagyl.
  • lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith, others). Lithium may also cause dangerous side effects when taken with Flagyl.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Flagyl. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.