Zidoval (Metronidazole)

Bacterial vaginosis, or ‘BV’, is a vaginal infection that causes watery grey or white discharge with a fishy odour. It’s the most common cause of unusual vaginal discharge, and affects ⅓ of people with menstrual cycles at some point.

BV happens when you have an overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. It’s not always clear why this happens, but potential triggers include:

• Smoking cigarettes
• Your menstrual cycle
• Unprotected sex
• Douching or over-washing
• Vaginal cleaners or deodorants

Antibiotics like Metronidazole and Clindamycin are proven to treat BV quickly and effectively by restoring vaginal bacteria to their natural balance.

Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection, but it can be triggered by oral sex or vaginal contact with semen. Using condoms or other barrier methods can help to reduce the risk of developing BV after sex.

At MedExpress, we offer oral metronidazole tablets, metronidazole gel and clindamycin cream to treat bacterial vaginosis.

Gels and creams can be inserted into the vagina with an applicator for up to 7 days, and tablets can be taken twice daily for 7 days, or as a single 2g dose.

All of these antibiotic treatments are clinically proven to treat bacterial vaginosis.

What side effects may I experience?

Metronidazole tablets can cause side effects such as dry mouth, a change in taste, nausea and vomiting. 

Side effects with metronidazole gel and clindamycin cream are uncommon. They can cause vaginal irritation and trigger thrush in some people. Abdominal discomfort and other stomach upsets have also been reported.

Can I drink alcohol while using Metronidazole?

Metronidazole can interact with alcohol, causing you to feel very unwell. You should not drink whilst taking metronidazole tablets or using metronidazole gel and for 48 hours after the last dose.