Metronidazole for bacterial vaginosis will begin to work immediately because it is quickly absorbed. It reaches its maximum concentration between one and two hours after administration. Most people notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days.
Here, we’ll explore how quickly metronidazole works against bacterial vaginosis, why you should finish the course, and give you some self-care tips if you currently have bacterial vaginosis.
When you take metronidazole tablets (or use metronidazole gel), they start working almost immediately. Because the body absorbs it so well, metronidazole reaches its peak concentration in the blood within two hours.
Most people who take metronidazole to treat bacterial vaginosis will feel better within a few days; however, it may take a week or longer for some individuals.
Metronidazole
Metronidazole works by killing the bacteria causing the infection through:
It is essential to complete the course of metronidazole prescribed by your clinician, even if you are feeling better. That’s because the infection could recur if you stop your treatment prematurely.
If you finish treatment early, then a small number of bacteria may remain in the body. Without antibiotics, these bacteria can continue to grow and cause the infection to recur.
The usual treatment for bacterial vaginosis is metronidazole. You can buy Metronidazole online from Prescription Doctor with a private prescription.
To request metronidazole from one of our clinicians, you will need to:
If metronidazole tablets aren’t right for you, then at Prescription Doctor, we can offer Zidoval as an alternative. It is a vaginal gel which contains metronidazole as its active ingredient. Rather than taking a tablet, Zidoval is a gel which is inserted into your vagina and used once daily for five days.
Sources
NHS, 2021. About metronidazole.
NHS, 2022. Bacterial vaginosis.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, (2023). Bacterial vaginosis: How common is it?
Pfizer, 2023. FLAGYL- metronidazole tablet, film-coated patient leaflet.
UpToDate, 2024. Patient education: Bacterial vaginosis (Beyond the Basics).
Additional Resources
Can You Take Metronidazole When Pregnant?
Why Can't You Drink On Metronidazole?
What Foods To Avoid While Taking Metronidazole?
Why Do I Keep Getting Bacterial Vaginosis?
How Can I Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis?
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