Metronidazole and Fatigue: What Users Say (Page 5)

• jus...
• November 3, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "This is the 3rd course of metronidazole I've taken in the last year for BV, and I will never take this medication again! The first 2 times I had the normal side effects of headache, fatigue, and metallic taste. This 3rd time has been an absolute nightmare! Around day 4 was when I started to get heart palpitations, flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, tiredness, and chills. I literally thought I was going to die a couple of times. I had to go to the ER because I almost passed out. They did a full work-up with labs and an EKG and found nothing wrong. I've stopped the medication 5 days ago, and my symptoms are getting worse. I'm not sure how long it will take for this medication to get out of my system, but I hope it is soon!"

• Rag...
• July 11, 2017

For Bacterial Vaginosis "DO NOT take this if you can avoid it! I've taken a lot of antibiotics in my life, and NEVER have I ever had such terrible side effects. Fatigue, thrush, nausea/vomiting, dark urine, migraine, and oh my god the vertigo, it's just the worst! I got prescribed this (500 mg) 2x a day for 7 days, and I stopped at day 6. First day without a dose and I still feel pretty lethargic, but overall I feel somewhat okay. I never had any symptoms from BV (didn't know I had it) other than I guess discharge, and that has stopped for now. Still a little nauseated, but nothing like I felt last night. I have had zero sleep because I was up all night vomiting! If you can finish the full prescription and come out unscathed, my hat's off to you! This antibiotic SUCKS!!!"

• Tan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 10, 2021

Metronidazole for Bacterial Infection "Was put on this drug for BV. I had no issues the first 4 days (500 mg twice a day for a week), but on day 5 it hit me. I woke up with a rash on my wrist and thigh. My back was also itchy. I disregarded these symptoms and put on lotion to soothe these spots. By nighttime and another two doses, I had extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, throat swelling, and general malaise. I was afraid to be alone and asked my family to watch over me to see if I needed to go to the hospital. I ended up taking allergy medicine and eating a meal hoping that would alleviate the symptoms. It is almost midnight, and I am afraid to go to sleep because of how itchy and tight my throat feels. I will not be taking the last two days of medicine. Note: I also have a strong intolerance to Cipro. Cipro gave me terrible nightmares, borderline night terrors, and muscular issues."

• Tan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 10, 2021

Metronidazole for Bacterial Infection "Was put on this drug for BV. I had no issues the first 4 days (500 mg twice a day for a week), but on day 5 it hit me. I woke up with a rash on my wrist and thigh. My back was also itchy. I disregarded these symptoms and put on lotion to soothe these spots. By nighttime and another two doses, I had extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, throat swelling, and general malaise. I was afraid to be alone and asked my family to watch over me to see if I needed to go to the hospital. I ended up taking allergy medicine and eating a meal hoping that would alleviate the symptoms. It is almost midnight, and I am afraid to go to sleep because of how itchy and tight my throat feels. I will not be taking the last two days of medicine. Note: I also have a strong intolerance to Cipro. Cipro gave me terrible nightmares, borderline night terrors, and muscular issues."

• Bvq...
• July 21, 2017

For Bacterial Vaginosis "I had no idea about any of the symptoms of BV. I went to the doctor, and they prescribed me metronidazole 500 mg twice a day for 7 days. I'm on day 7 and have had some side effects by reading your posts. I had an upset stomach, nothing I can't handle. I have also had some cramps, dark urine, and fatigue. The worst of all was fatigue, I'm so tired all the time and have had no desire whatsoever to clean my house or cook for that matter. I hate it! I'm done today, though, so hoping this lets up soon. As far as the symptoms go, they went away what seems to be after the first day. I don't have any discharge, smell, itching, or anything for that matter, though I didn't have sex while on the meds. I would recommend every time!"

• Sha...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 1, 2018

For Bacterial Infection "I wouldn't recommend this drug to anybody because the side effects are so severe. Although, this drug will clear your infection. I had BV and was instructed to take it twice for 7 days. In those 7 days, I experienced severe abdominal cramping (that kept me up at night), nausea, vomiting, sluggishness (sleeping longer than usual), and slightly darker urine. Make sure to avoid alcohol while taking this antibiotic because it can cause more severe side effects. On my last dosage of this pill, I stayed up all night throwing up for 7 hours, every 20 minutes. If you find that your dosage is too high, immediately contact your doctor. Not everyone experiences the same side effects, so don't stay away from this drug because of all the reviews. If you are advised by a medical professional to take it, try it out for yourself."

• CHO...
• December 5, 2016

For Bacterial Infection "I have to say this time around from the ER to the overnights. I have never been more unsure as to why I'm taking a medication. I was told I have a partial blockage. Except my WBC count was 15k. Liquid diet from Thanksgiving until 2 Dec. I lost 12 lbs. I take medicine for GERD, heartburn, BP. As you can see taken. At the hospital, they gave me cipro and flagyl to take home and d/c'd me. I am constantly bloated no matter what I eat or drink. Fatigue or just feel like rubbish. Haven't felt this bad in a while. I am starting to think my flora are jacked because of these meds. Going to use probiotics."

• Kkn...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 9, 2016

For Crohn's Disease, Active "Taking for possible C. diff complicated by Crohn's disease. For me, the key to tolerating this drug is probiotics taken in the morning at least one hour before the first Flagyl dose, and secondly, drink at least 8 oz of water with each dose. The addition of probiotics has made a huge difference in side effects, particularly nausea. Water is also important. I still feel some fatigue and occasional headache, but tolerable."

• Sev...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 2, 2021

For Giardiasis "I was really scared to use this based on reviews, but am experiencing very minor side effects. I’m taking 500 mg 3/day for 7 days for giardia. Side effects are very manageable and not severe at all: headache, fatigue, mild stomach upset. I take with food, wash the pill down with lemon flavored water (helps a lot with the taste), and drink lots of fluids throughout the day. Side effects are nothing compared to the fatigue/stomach issues I have from giardia. Efficacy TBD."

• Wil...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 5, 2020

Metronidazole for Skin or Soft Tissue Infection "Absolutely awful reaction to this drug, Flagyl. I have never been so sick on any medication. Was prescribed for a puncture wound to avoid infection but honestly cannot say if it worked or not, although the infection was prevented. However, I was completely dysfunctional with side effects from the Flagyl, including shocking headache, sore throat, hallucinations, dizziness, sore back, upset stomach, sinus reaction, and extreme fatigue."

• Krs...
• December 15, 2019

For Bacterial Vaginosis "Started Flagyl for BV. Never taken this in my life. Nothing but dizziness, fatigue, not feeling myself. Been off almost 2 full days, and the fatigue is still here. I pray it subsides soon. Will never take again."

• Abd...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 5, 2021

For Gastrointestinal Perforation "It's very important that you don't use the products that contain propylene glycol. It could be shampoos, preservatives, skin care products, etc. The most important being that food you will feel the worst side effects with this drug, which may include fever, fatigue, joint pain, stomach cramps, skin irritation, etc. Don't skip a dosage as it's important to note that this is an antibiotic, it will mess up your digestive microbiome."

• Wha...
• July 26, 2019

For Bacterial Vaginosis "So what is worse? BV or the side effects of this medicine? I'm on day 3. 500 mg every 12 hrs. Male DR. (my lady Gyno wasn't available) prescribes and says, Oh BTW, don't drink alcohol with this, you'll throw your guts up. Gee, thanks, the pharmacist actually gave me better information about this medicine. So I'm 6 pills in, and yes, I noticed severe headache, stomach cramping, fatigue, and nausea. Yes, the pill will get stuck on your tongue. I didn't have any odor, just mild discharge and itching. I'm itching worse today than ever and have been doubling up on my Activia yogurt for fear of developing a yeast infection. I'm stopping the meds today, so we shall see if it returns. My first bout with BV and hopefully my last."

• Jen...
• August 31, 2017

For Pelvic Inflammatory Disease "I was prescribed 500 mg, 2x daily for 7 days for pelvic inflammatory infection not related to an STD. Prior to this diagnosis, it was believed to be a UTI, so I was given 3 days of Cipro with no side effects or relief. I had debilitating pain in my right hip, pelvis, low back, and ovaries when I was seen. On day 5 of metronidazole treatment, my pain decreased, but the 3rd day in through now (2nd day off), I have a horrible taste in my mouth, cannot tolerate heat without almost fainting, have fatigue (caffeine no help), sweating (air conditioning no help), joint pain, and mental agitation, and overall sick feeling. The plus side is that the pain is gone, so hopefully I will return to normal soon."

• Dav...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 28, 2023

For Giardiasis "This medication is rough! I was having GI issues for 2 weeks after getting back from a trip to SE Asia. The stool test suggested I had Giardia and ova and other parasites - yikes! Started on metronidazole 500 mg, three times daily, for 7 days. Made it 3.5 days and requested to switch meds. Side effects included headache, brain fog, fatigue, urine discoloration, nausea, loss of appetite, and a metallic taste."

• Eli...
• December 5, 2016

For Bacterial Vaginosis "I have been prescribed to take the metronidazole gel for 5 days. Day 1 was okay, but as soon as day 2 hit, I had terrible stomach cramps and bloating. Day 4 came, and I felt completely ill. Bad chest pain, nausea, stomach ache, cramping, fatigue, sweaty, anxiety, irritable, runny nose, bad cough, sore throat, and back pain. As you can tell, it all felt like hell. I spent one night crying because it was so bad. I read up on it, and a lot of people seem to have the same. I guess it's like you got to walk through hell to get to the better side. I had my period while taking this, so far, I have no idea if it helped with the BV. Hopefully, I'm good. Never am I taking this again! Everyone reacts differently, lucky me, I just got the worst end. Good luck."

• sha...
• November 9, 2016

Metronidazole for Bacterial Infection "I was prescribed 500 mg 2x a day for 7 days. I am on day 3, side effects so far are fatigue and flu-like symptoms. I have not experienced the bad taste. Hopefully, this works, I have never taken this before."

• RTa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 13, 2019

For Dental Abscess "I was prescribed metronidazole on Monday morning for a dental abscess, 400 mg 3x daily. Yesterday (Tuesday), I slept in a deep sleep for most of the day and night, waking up for medication, food, and water, and having spells of confusion and extreme fatigue, feeling angry and frustrated. This morning (Wednesday) I woke up feeling exhausted and very irritated, not understanding why, crying for no reason. This behavior is completely out of the blue for me. I phoned the dentist's surgery, they were no use whatsoever, said they are not the common side effects for this medication. Family members were worried, so they took me to the doctors, they’ve prescribed me some different antibiotics. Safe to say I will not be taking this again!!!!"

• AQ1...
• May 26, 2013

For Giardiasis "Had recurring giardiasis. Not serious this time because I knew what it was and didn't let it get past the first week of symptoms. I'm taking a very low dose, so my symptoms aren't bad. Just avoid dairy for half the time between doses. I'm also using Stevia instead of sugar. I have an 8-hour race on my last day of taking this, so fatigue isn't an issue."

• alm...
• March 9, 2015

Metronidazole for Bacterial Infection "I've been taking Flagyl 500 mg twice a day for 6 days now for bacterial vaginitis. I almost decided to give up on sex, but I told my new boyfriend that we have to be extra careful next time. Wash our hands like a surgeon. I'm not even sure I want to have oral sex anymore. I just don't think it is worth it. Is it possible not to get an infection with oral? I am at the home stretch. I have that metallic taste in my mouth and nausea. I'm also fatigued, but I am a mother of two girls and it could be anything. My doctor actually prescribed this medication for 10 days, but I'm only doing it for 7. My symptoms are gone, and I just wanted to comment because I like reading other people's stories. It really helps me not feel so alone."

• Raz...
• September 18, 2017

For Bacterial Vaginosis "Only day 3 of taking three Flagyl a day. Seems to be clearing up infection very rapidly. Only 2 side effect symptoms that are bothersome, particularly while trying to work, are massive headaches, really painful, and fatigue. Feel very cold after taking the tablet as well. Happy to put up with that as long as the infection clears up."

• Ari...
• December 11, 2015

For Bacterial Vaginosis "I rated this a 5 because of the side effects. I am 22 years old, 5'4" and 160 pounds. I am taking 500 mg twice a day, and I'm only on my second day, and I feel absolutely horrible. I'm incredibly fatigued, nauseous, and moody, and the metallic taste in my mouth is driving me nuts all day. I can barely function at work, let alone move because I feel so weak. The odor and itch have cleared within two days, which is great, but this specific medication is very strong. I have taken several types of antibiotics before (amoxicillin, penicillin, clindamycin, Bactrim), and I've never experienced side effects this bad. I can definitely say that it doesn't matter whether you're a skinny person or overweight, this medication is just very aggressive."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 5, 2017

For Bacterial Vaginosis "Yes, the side effects are pretty bad. I have had diarrhea, headaches, vertigo (dizziness), fatigue, and stomach cramps. However, the odor and discharge are gone by Day 4. The side effects can easily be tolerated for a week to cure the BV. I would probably use the vaginal gel if I ever got BV again, though."

• DDY...
• August 10, 2017

For Bacterial Infection "Prescribed for tooth infection. Had previously and had bad diarrhea previously. However, this time I'm on day 3 and really struggling. No diarrhea this time, but feeling very nauseous all day, headaches, bad taste in mouth, extreme fatigue, and feeling really terrible."

• Jan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 18, 2017

For Bacterial Vaginosis "Thank goodness for these reviews, I wasn’t sure if it was just me. I’m on day 4 (500 mg x 2 day), and I feel awful. I take it with food as prescribed, but it’s curbed my appetite immensely. I haven’t been hungry for 2 days. Flu-like symptoms that have so far included morning nausea and one night of intense nausea and dry heaving. Fuzzy feeling with dull headaches. Extreme fatigue — I slept most of the day today and still feel tired. Also, some jaw tension. The only indication I had of BV was odor, so as far as I know, everything seems and smells fine now. I’m going to try my best to stick it out, but this sucks!"