Sarah asked
Hi, I was prescribed metronidazole for BV and when I started taking it I started getting cramps similar to menstrual cramps. Is this normal? Thanks
Answer
Flagyl (metronidazole) is an antibacterial and antiprotozoal medication used for a variety of indications.
Although generally well tolerated, metronidazole can certainly cause cramping as an adverse reaction. From the prescribing information for the drug:
The most common adverse reactions reported have been referable to the gastrointestinal tract, particularly nausea reported by about 12% of patients, sometimes accompanied by headache, anorexia, and occasionally vomiting; diarrhea; epigastric distress; and abdominal cramping. Constipation has also been reported.Cramping has been reported with metronidazole in both oral (e.g. tablets) and vaginal dosage forms.
Cramping on metronidizole is thought to be generally mild and should resolve after treatment is over with the drug.
Metronidazole And Alcohol
It is important to abstain from the consumption of alcohol and products contains polyethylene glycol (e.g. e-cigarette liquids) while taking metronidazole. Metronidazole can inhibit the metabolism of these substances, which can cause severe nausea, flushing, vomiting, diarrhea and cramping.
If the onset of cramping from metronidazole comes after consumption of products that contain alcohol or propylene glycol, that may be the contributing factor.
