Is it harmful to drink red wine after taking metronidazole?
Generally speaking, drinking red wine after taking metronidazole can cause problems.
Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. At the same time, metronidazole is also a medication that can interact with alcohol. Drinking alcohol while taking metronidazole may trigger a disulfiram-like adverse reaction, causing facial flushing, headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and even drowsiness. This occurs because metronidazole inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, preventing the body from properly metabolizing and eliminating acetaldehyde (a byproduct of alcohol), thereby worsening alcohol-related side effects. Therefore, alcohol should be avoided during treatment and for at least one week after discontinuing the drug. Additionally, medications containing alcohol, such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water, should also be avoided.
Hence, it is recommended to avoid alcohol—including red wine—while taking metronidazole. If alcohol consumption is absolutely necessary, it should only be done under a doctor’s guidance, with strict control over the amount consumed. Moreover, be aware that the interaction between metronidazole and alcohol may lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention promptly.