Metronidazole 400mg Tablets
£30.00
PharmaBee offers Metronidazole 400mg tablets following a secure online consultation reviewed by our team. No GP appointment is required. If clinically appropriate, a private prescription is issued and your medication is dispensed and delivered in discreet packaging, often with next-day delivery available.
Dental infections can become painful and serious quickly. Where urgent dental appointments are unavailable, timely assessment and appropriate treatment are essential. Our service provides regulated access to antibiotics when they are clinically indicated, while maintaining responsible standards.
Overview
Hanifa Tai
Description
What Is Metronidazole?
Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria — bacteria that thrive in low-oxygen environments. These bacteria are commonly involved in dental abscesses and serious gum infections. In UK dental practice, Metronidazole is an alternative first-line treatment for patients allergic to penicillin and sometimes used alongside Amoxicillin for more severe or spreading infections. It is recommended for certain gum infections, including acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis.
At PharmaBee, Metronidazole is short-term management of suspected spreading dental infection, following individual assessment.
Important: Alcohol Warning
You must not drink alcohol during treatment with Metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after your final dose. Combining alcohol with Metronidazole can cause a severe reaction including nausea and vomiting, flushing, headache, rapid heartbeat, and stomach cramps. This reaction can occur even with small amounts of alcohol, including in mouthwash or certain foods. If you are unsure whether a product contains alcohol, check with a pharmacist before using it.
Standard Adult Dose
The usual adult dose for dental infection is 400mg (ONE tablet) three times daily for five days. In more complex infections, it may sometimes be alongside Amoxicillin, depending on clinical judgement.
Who Can Take Metronidazole?
Metronidazole may be suitable for adults aged 18 and over who have signs of spreading dental infection, with no contraindications to treatment, or who cannot take penicillin antibiotics.
Who Should Not Take Metronidazole?
Metronidazole may not be suitable if you:
- Have severe liver disease
- Have a known allergy to Metronidazole
- Are in the first trimester of pregnancy (unless clinically necessary)
- Have certain neurological conditions
It may require caution if you take warfarin, lithium, certain epilepsy medicines, or have a history of blood disorders.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Metronidazole should be used with caution in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding you must declare this during your consultation. Short courses are sometimes used in pregnancy when clearly necessary but the final decision rests with the pharmacist.
Images are for illustration purposes only
Where the full pack size of the medication is not prescribed the quantity will be put in a pharmacy container. For example Metronidazole comes in packs of 21 but only 15 is prescribed, the 15 will be put in a pharmacy container and the original will be retained in the pharmacy due to regulations.
FAQ
What infections is Metronidazole used for at PharmaBee?
We used Metronidazole for suspected spreading dental infection, including abscesses and serious gum infections, particularly when penicillin antibiotics are unsuitable.
Can I take it if I’m allergic to penicillin?
Yes. Metronidazole is not a penicillin antibiotic and is often used as an alternative.
How soon will I feel better?
Most patients improve within 2–3 days. If symptoms worsen, seek urgent care.
Do I still need to see a dentist?
Yes. Antibiotics control infection but do not fix the underlying dental issue.
Can I drink alcohol?
No. Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after finishing.
Does Metronidazole affect contraception?
Metronidazole does not directly reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraception, but vomiting or severe diarrhoea may affect absorption. Follow standard missed-pill guidance if this occurs.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Like all medicines, Metronidazole can cause side effects:
- Nausea and stomach upset
- A metallic taste in the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
These will usually settle and resolve completely once the course is finished. Some people notice darker urine — this is harmless and temporary.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Rare but serious side effects include:
- Severe allergic reaction
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Seizures
- Severe skin rash
If you experience serious symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Side effects can be reported via the Yellow Card Scheme managed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
