Metronidazole is a medication in a class of drugs known as antibiotics. It works by destroying bacteria in the body. According to Drugs.com, metronidazole is used to treat bacterial infections of the vagina, stomach, skin, joints, and respiratory tract. This medication must be taken for the entire length of time for which it is prescribed to fully treat the infection. There are some side effects associated with metronidazole 250 mg tablets that patients should be aware of.
Headache and Dizziness
Patients taking metronidazole 250 mg may experience headache and dizziness. These side effects may diminish over time as the body adjusts to metronidazole. Patients may want to use caution while driving or completing tasks that may be dangerous until they know how metronidazole will affect them. A severe or persistent headache should be brought to the attention of a physician.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Metronidazole 250 mg tablets may cause flu-like symptoms in some patients. According to Drugs.com, symptoms can include cough, sneezing, and runny or stuffy nose. Cough drops, throat lozenges, and humidified air may be helpful at relieving these side effects. Patients may ask their physician if the use of an over-the-counter antihistamine medication may be used to treat these symptoms. A cough or congestion that is accompanied by fever, swollen lymph glands, difficulty breathing, wheezing, or yellow or green-tinged sputum may be a sign of an additional infection and should be brought to the attention of a health-care provider.
Stomach Discomfort
Patients taking metronidazole 250 mg tablets may experience stomach discomfort. Upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur, notes PubMed Health. Drinking alcohol while taking this medication may increase these side effects and should be avoided. Eating a bland diet and having smaller meals more frequently may help alleviate stomach discomfort. Severe vomiting and diarrhea should be reported to a physician prior to taking another dosage of metronidazole. It can lead to the development of dehydration, which may cause additional complications.
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