Can I drink alcohol on metronidazole?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
No - the NHS says avoid alcohol completely while taking metronidazole and for 2 days after the last dose, because it blocks alcohol breakdown and the buildup causes feeling and being sick, stomach pain, hot flushes, pounding heartbeat, and headache. The rule covers tablets, liquid, and suppositories, and vaginal gel can sometimes trigger the reaction too; skin cream or gel is less likely to. Watch hidden alcohol in mouthwashes and liquid medicines. Already drank? Stop, and tell your prescriber - do not quit the antibiotic without asking. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you plan around a course.
What to do
- Zero alcohol during the course: and for 2 full days after the last dose.
- Check labels for hidden alcohol: mouthwash and liquid medicines count.
- Vaginal gel can trigger it too: skin cream is the low-risk form.
- Slipped up? Do not abandon the antibiotic: call the prescriber instead.
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