Product introduction
Flagyl 400 is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medicine used to treat a range of infections caused by certain bacteria and parasites, including infections of the abdomen, pelvis, gums, skin and lungs. It is usually taken after meals at the same times each day. It is important to finish the full course prescribed, even if you feel better sooner, because stopping early can let the infection return.
Storage: Store below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children.
Uses of Flagyl 400 Tablet
- Treatment of bacterial infections caused by anaerobic bacteria
- Treatment of parasitic (protozoal) infections
Benefits of Flagyl 400 Tablet
Flagyl 400 tackles infections by killing the anaerobic bacteria and parasites responsible for them. As the infection clears, symptoms such as pain, fever and inflammation ease, healing speeds up and the risk of complications falls. Completing the prescribed course helps clear the infection fully and reduces the chance of it coming back.
Side effects of Flagyl 400 Tablet
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Nausea
- Headache
- Decreased appetite
- Metallic taste in the mouth
How to use Flagyl 400 Tablet
Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew, crush or break it. Flagyl 400 should be taken with or after food, which helps reduce stomach upset. Take it in the dose and for the length of time prescribed by your doctor, and complete the entire course.
How Flagyl 400 Tablet works
Flagyl 400 contains metronidazole, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent. It enters the bacterial or parasitic cells and damages their DNA, which stops them from multiplying and clears the infection.
Substitutes for Flagyl 400 Tablet
No other medicine with the same composition is listed in our catalogue yet. Message us on WhatsApp and our pharmacist will help you find a suitable alternative.
Safety advice
Drinking alcohol can trigger a disulfiram-like reaction with flushing, a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure, nausea, lightheadedness and severe headache. Avoid alcohol during and for a few days after treatment.
It is generally considered safe when prescribed; animal studies have not shown harm, though human data is limited. Use it only after consulting your doctor.
Use with caution. Your doctor may advise pausing breastfeeding until the course is finished and the drug has cleared from the body.
It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion or visual problems, so avoid driving if affected.
No dose change is usually needed. If you are on dialysis, take the dose after your session.
A dose adjustment may be needed in severe liver disease; use under medical supervision.
Quick tips
- Take it with a full meal or with milk to reduce stomach-related side effects.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 2 to 3 days afterwards, as the combination can cause an unpleasant reaction.
- Your urine may turn darker or reddish-brown, which is harmless.
- A metallic or bitter taste is common and usually settles once the course is finished.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease before starting treatment.
Fact box
| Chemical class | Nitroimidazole derivative |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | No |
| Therapeutic class | Anti Infectives |
| Action class | Antiprotozoal & Antibacterial - Nitroimidazoles |
Frequently asked questions
How soon does Flagyl 400 start working?
It usually begins to act within about an hour of taking it, though a noticeable improvement in symptoms may take 2 to 3 days.
Can I stop taking it once I feel better?
No. Finish the full course as prescribed, even if you feel well. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and become harder to treat.
Why must I avoid alcohol with this medicine?
Combining metronidazole with alcohol can cause a disulfiram-like reaction with flushing, nausea and headache. Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 3 days after finishing.
Why has my urine changed colour?
The medicine can turn your urine darker or reddish-brown. This is harmless and settles after the course is complete.
Is Flagyl 400 available without a prescription?
No. It is a prescription-only antibiotic and should be used exactly as directed by your doctor.