Doctors prescribe Flagyl (metronidazole) as a treatment for bacterial or parasitic infections in various body parts. These include:

• Bacterial vaginosis (BV): BV occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is thrown off, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. Flagyl helps restore balance and relieve symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, and irritation. BV is also commonly treated with clindamycin.
• STIs: Flagyl is a primary treatment for trichomoniasis, a common STI caused by a microscopic parasite (in some cases, alternative antimicrobials like tinidazole may also be used). Healthcare providers usually recommend that sexual partners complete treatment simultaneously to prevent reinfection.
• Intestinal and stomach infections: It helps eliminate parasites and bacteria that cause severe digestive issues—including giardiasis (watery diarrhea from contaminated water), C. diff (severe bacterial diarrhea), and H. pylori (stomach ulcers, where Flagyl is often paired with amoxicillin).
• Other organ and tissue infections: Flagyl is used to treat targeted bacterial infections like liver abscesses (pockets of infection in the liver), abdominal infections, and central nervous system conditions like meningitis.

No, Flagyl (metronidazole) is generally not used to treat UTIs. Metronidazole specifically targets anaerobic bacteria, which thrive without oxygen, and certain parasites. UTIs are typically caused by aerobic bacteria that require antibiotics like nitrofurantoin or ciprofloxacin.

However, if you experience urinary-like symptoms, like burning or discomfort, caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, the provider may prescribe Flagyl to treat this underlying cause.

Common side effects of Flagyl (metronidazole) include nausea, stomach upset, metallic taste, dry mouth, headache, and temporary darkening of your urine. Taking Flagyl with food or milk helps prevent stomach irritation.

Stop taking Flagyl and seek medical care right away if you experience serious symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, seizures, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction (like hives or facial swelling).

As with all prescription medications, inform your provider about any medical conditions you have been diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you currently take before starting treatment with Flagyl. Drug interactions can cause potentially serious side effects.

Do not consume alcohol when taking Flagyl and for at least 3 days after your last dose.

Make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Flagyl (metronidazole) is commonly prescribed as an oral tablet or an extended-release capsule to be taken by mouth. The exact dosage and schedule will vary depending on your age and diagnosis. Take the medication exactly as your doctor has instructed.

Do not increase your dosage or discontinue the use of Flagyl unless ordered to do so by your healthcare provider. If you experience any adverse reactions, speak to your provider about them. Your dosage may increase or decrease depending on how well you tolerate the medication.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. This does not apply if it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, return right to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses of Flagyl (metronidazole) at once.

Make sure to complete the entire prescribed course of Flagyl, even if your symptoms improve. This ensures the infection is completely cleared and you do not develop antibiotic resistance.

No, Flagyl (metronidazole) is only available by prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

A healthcare provider needs to evaluate your symptoms—and sometimes run lab tests—to ensure Flagyl is the correct treatment for your specific condition.

If you are experiencing symptoms, you can book a same-day telehealth visit on Sesame to be evaluated by a provider from home.

Yes, you can get a Flagyl (metronidazole) prescription online through a telehealth platform like Sesame. During a virtual visit, a provider will review your medical history and symptoms. If prescribed, your medication will be sent directly to a local pharmacy near you—often available for same-day pickup.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.