can you drink on metronidazole

It is strongly advised not to drink alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours (2 to 3 days) after finishing the course. Drinking alcohol with metronidazole can cause a disulfiram-like reaction, which may lead to symptoms such as flushing, headaches, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, rapid heartbeat, and low blood pressure. This reaction occurs because metronidazole affects how the body metabolizes alcohol, leading to a toxic buildup of acetaldehyde. Although some studies suggest the reaction may not occur in everyone, caution is recommended due to the potential severity of the side effects. Medical professionals recommend avoiding any alcohol intake during the treatment period and shortly after to prevent these risks and ensure the antibiotic’s effectiveness.