Can I take Metronidazole and Alcohol together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 24 Jan 2026
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Drinking alcohol while taking metronidazole can cause a very unpleasant reaction. You may experience severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, hot flushes (redness of the face and neck), a pounding heartbeat, and headaches. In some cases, it can lead to shortness of breath or fainting.
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Why this happens
Metronidazole interferes with the way your body breaks down alcohol. Normally, your liver turns alcohol into a chemical called acetaldehyde, which is then broken down by an enzyme. Metronidazole blocks this enzyme, causing acetaldehyde to build up to toxic levels in your blood, leading to the 'disulfiram-like' reaction.
What you should do
Do not drink any alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 to 72 hours after finishing your last dose. This includes checking for 'hidden' alcohol in medicines like cough syrups or mouthwashes. If you accidentally consume alcohol and feel very unwell, seek medical advice immediately.
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Important precautions
Alcohol consumption during and after treatment
Do not drink any alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours after finishing the course. Combining them causes a 'disulfiram-like reaction', leading to severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, hot flushes, and a pounding heartbeat.
Food and drink warnings
Alcohol
You must not drink any alcohol while taking metronidazole and for at least 48 hours (2 days) after you finish the course. Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause a very unpleasant 'disulfiram-like' reaction. Symptoms include feeling or being sick, stomach pain, hot flushes, a pounding heartbeat (palpitations), and headaches. This includes checking for alcohol in mouthwashes or cough syrups.
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Using other medicines?
Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
24 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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