skip to main content

Metronidazole counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyInfectionsMetronidazole counsellingGPhC CRA

A 30-year-old woman presents with vaginal discharge and fishy odour. She is prescribed metronidazole 400mg twice daily for 5 days. She asks about alcohol because she has a wedding tomorrow. What would you advise the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 48 hours after completing metronidazole

Standard counselling for metronidazole includes avoiding alcohol during treatment and for at least 48 hours after the course because of a disulfiram-like reaction risk. The patient should also be counselled on adherence and possible metallic taste or GI upset. Skipping doses risks treatment failure. Taking extra doses later is not appropriate.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS Bacterial vaginosis