If you’re taking metronidazole and have noticed a persistent metallic or bitter taste in your mouth, you’re not alone. This unpleasant side effect is common with this antibiotic, but the good news is that it’s temporary. Here’s what to expect about this metallic taste and some additional details about metronidazole.
Metronidazole is a strong antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections. It works by stopping the growth of harmful anaerobic bacteria and certain parasites.
Some of the infections treated with metronidazole include bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endocarditis, and infections caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. It’s also used to treat antibiotic-associated colitis caused by Clostridium difficile bacteria.
Unfortunately, a frequent side effect is that metronidazole can leave a persistent metallic, bitter, or yeasty taste in the mouth. This happens because small amounts of the drug dissolve in saliva. When the saliva coats the tongue and mouth, it causes that unpleasant taste.
The bothersome metallic taste caused by metronidazole usually goes away within 1-2 days after finishing the medication. Some people find that drinking plenty of water helps reduce the taste sensation while still taking the antibiotic.
If the metallic taste persists for more than 2-3 days after the last dose, contact your doctor. While unlikely, it could signal a more serious problem in rare cases. But in most instances, it’s simply residual medication and the taste fades over time.
Read: How Oral Rinses Neutralize Metallic Taste
MetaQil Metallic Taste Oral Rinse is an innovative product designed to help relieve metallic taste disorders. It contains xylitol, a low-calorie sweetener, and monk fruit extract which has anti-inflammatory properties.
MetaQil rinse is alcohol and sugar-free. It can provide relief from the bothersome metallic taste caused by metronidazole and help foods taste normal again. This oral rinse refreshes the mouth and coats the tongue to mask bitter metallic tastes.
In most cases, the metallic taste from metronidazole resolves within a few days after stopping the antibiotic. However, contact your doctor right away if:
While rare, a persistent metallic taste can indicate nerve damage or other complications in some instances. It’s always better to be safe and call your doctor about any unusual symptoms while taking metronidazole.
That unpleasant bitter, metallic taste is frustrating but temporary. Try MetaQil rinse for relief and stick to bland foods while taking metronidazole. The metallic taste should disappear within a couple days after finishing the antibiotic. Just be sure to complete the full course as prescribed. Let your pharmacist or doctor know if you have any other questions!
