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Metronidazole counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardInfectionsMetronidazole counsellingGPhC CRA

A 45-year-old collects metronidazole 400 mg three times daily for dental infection. He says he has a wedding reception tomorrow and asks whether he can drink alcohol during the course. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after finishing

Metronidazole can cause an unpleasant disulfiram-like reaction with alcohol, including flushing, nausea and palpitations. The patient should avoid alcohol during the course and for 48 hours after completing it. Skipping doses increases the risk of treatment failure. Taking alcohol with food does not remove the interaction risk.

Reference: BNF