Antibiotics for trichomoniasis: treatment and practical advice

A clinician may prescribe metronidazole or tinidazole in a regimen suited to your circumstances. Take every dose exactly as directed, even if vaginal discharge, irritation, or discomfort improves quickly.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. The medicines used against it are antimicrobials from the nitroimidazole group; ordinary antibiotics chosen for common urinary or vaginal bacterial infections may not clear it.

Current sexual partners usually need assessment and treatment at the same time, including partners without symptoms. Otherwise, the infection can pass back and forth. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete, symptoms have settled, and the clinician's advised waiting period has passed.

Tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver problems, take regular medicines, or have previously reacted to metronidazole or tinidazole. Nausea, a metallic taste, and stomach upset can occur. Follow the label's instructions about food and alcohol, and contact a pharmacist or prescriber before changing or stopping the course.

Do not share tablets or use leftover medicine. If you vomit soon after a dose or miss one, ask a pharmacist how to proceed because the answer depends on timing and the prescribed regimen. Testing for other sexually transmitted infections may also be offered.

Arrange follow-up if symptoms persist after the course, return after improving, or if a partner was not treated. A repeat test or a different regimen may be needed; ongoing symptoms can also have another cause.

Seek urgent care for facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing, fainting, or a widespread blistering rash after taking medicine. Prompt assessment is also appropriate for severe lower abdominal pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or significant illness during pregnancy.

Ask which dosing schedule applies to you, what to do about a missed dose, when sexual contact can resume, which partners should be notified, and whether repeat testing is recommended. Mention any persistent vaginal itching or discharge so other infections can be considered.