Metronidazole

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jul 05, 2022

Warnings


What are the risks of using metronidazole (MetroGel)?


Metronidazole can cause serious health problems, especially in certain high-risk patients. Please talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatment options if these are a concern for you.

  • EYE IRRITATION: Metronidazole (MetroGel) can cause irritation and tearing if it gets into the eyes. Wash your hands before and after using the medicine, and avoid touching your eyes when applying MetroGel. If the medicine comes in contact with your eyes, immediately wash your eyes thoroughly with water.

  • ALLERGIC REACTION: In a small number of people, MetroGel can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop using the medication and contact your doctor. 

  • NUMBNESS AND TINGLING IN THE HANDS AND FEET: The risk is higher in people taking oral metronidazole to treat infections. The risk of numbness and tingling is less with MetroGel (topical metronidazole gel). If you experience weakness, numbness, and tingling in your hands and feet, you should contact your doctor.

Your doctor or pharmacist can prescribe other treatments if you are at risk of complications from metronidazole use. 


What should I tell my doctor before using metronidazole (MetroGel)?

Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to metronidazole or any of the ingredients in metronidazole topical products. Your local pharmacy can provide you with a list of ingredients.

Give your doctor a complete medical history. Metronidazole may not be right for people with certain health conditions, such as some types of nervous system and blood conditions. 

Give your doctor a complete list of your current medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, dietary supplements and vitamins, as well as herbal products. This can help avoid serious drug interactions between metronidazole and other medicines.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What precautions should I take while using metronidazole (MetroGel)?

Keep all your appointments at your doctor’s office. If you still have symptoms after finishing your prescription of metronidazole (MetroGel), contact your doctor. Keep an updated list of all your current medications and take it to every doctor’s appointment.

What are metronidazole (MetroGel) interactions?

Using metronidazole with certain medications can affect how the drug works or increase the risk of severe side effects. Your physician may choose a different medication, change the dose or frequency of your medicines, and/or monitor you carefully for side effects if there are known drug interactions. 

Metronidazole (MetroGel) drug interactions should be kept in mind for patients who are on anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven). Because of low absorption, interactions are less likely to occur with topical metronidazole administration.

This list does not describe all possible metronidazole interactions. Give your healthcare provider a complete list of your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Also, tell your healthcare provider if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs because some of these substances can cause serious health complications when used with prescription drugs.