Flagyl is a brand-name prescription antimicrobial used to treat bacterial infections of the heart, blood, nervous system, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, lungs, joints, bones, and skin. Extended-release metronidazole is commonly prescribed to treat bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis.

As an antimicrobial, Flagyl cannot be used to treat viral infections. If Flagyl is being used to treat a sexually transmitted infection (like trichomoniasis), both sex partners should use the medication simultaneously. This helps reduce the risk of reinfection in either partner. Antimicrobials stop the growth of harmful microorganisms in the body, so simultaneous use in both partners of metronidazole will help prevent the infection from living on and being passed between partners.

Flagyl is supplied as an oral tablet or extended-release capsule. It contains the drug metronidazole, which is available in generic form. Flagyl is only available via prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Doctors prescribe Flagyl as a treatment for bacterial or protozoal infections in various body parts.

Common types of bacterial infections include:

Bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis–referred to as BV--is a change in the bacteria within the vagina. The vagina contains naturally occurring bacteria and fungi that help protect the area and keep it clean. When this balance is thrown off due to an overgrowth or change in the species of bacteria growing within it, it can result in bothersome symptoms such as abnormal and foul-smelling discharge, itching, and vaginal pain.

STIs: Certain sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea are caused by invasive bacteria. Common symptoms of these infections include pain during urination and abnormal discharge from the genitals.

Some specific indications for Flagyl include:

• Amoebic dysentery or amoebic liver abscesses
  
• Meningitis
  
• C. diff diarrhea
  
• Giardiasis
  
• H. pylori (the bug linked to ulcers)
  
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
  

Flagyl has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if these reactions do not disappear within a few days or become severe.

Common side effects reported from Flagyl use:

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Constipation
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Headaches
  
• Dry mouth
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions. Severe adverse reactions include:

• Changes in heartbeat
  
• Dizziness
  
• Difficulty with speech
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling
  
• Joint pain
  
• Seizures
  
• Stuffy or runny nose
  
  

If you experience any of these reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

As with all prescription medications, inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you currently take before starting treatment with Flagyl. Flagyl can interact with other medicines and substances, causing potentially serious side effects.

Do not drink alcohol while using Flagyl. These substances may cause severe nausea, vomiting, and other complications. Do not drink alcohol until 3 days after discontinuing use of Flagyl.

Before beginning treatment with Flagyl, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant.

Flagyl 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 the patient's age, diagnosis, and body weight. 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 doctor. If you experience any adverse reactions, contact a healthcare provider. Your dosage may increase or decrease depending on how well you tolerate the medication.

Flagyl is only available by prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Providers on Sesame can order Flagyl for local pickup on the same day. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Flagyl to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.