Metronidazole Neuropathy: Symptoms, Risks, and What to Do

When you take metronidazole, a widely prescribed antibiotic used for bacterial and parasitic infections like bacterial vaginosis, C. diff, and certain skin infections. Also known as Flagyl, it works fast—but for some, it comes with a hidden cost: peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that causes tingling, burning, or weakness in the hands and feet.

This isn’t rare. Studies show that up to 2% of people on long-term metronidazole develop nerve issues, and the risk jumps with doses over 400 mg daily or treatment longer than 2 weeks. The damage often starts subtly—maybe a numb toe, a tingling finger—and creeps up slowly. It’s not like a rash or stomach upset. You might not connect it to the pill you’ve been swallowing for days. But if you’ve been on metronidazole for more than a week and feel odd sensations in your limbs, stop and talk to your doctor. drug-induced neuropathy, nerve damage caused by medications like metronidazole is often reversible if caught early, but can become permanent if ignored.

Why does this happen? Metronidazole interferes with how nerves send signals. It doesn’t hurt your muscles or bones—it targets the long nerves running from your spine to your toes and fingers. People with kidney problems, diabetes, or existing nerve conditions are at higher risk. Even healthy adults aren’t safe. The FDA has warned about this since 2004, yet many patients and even some doctors don’t realize the connection. You don’t need to avoid metronidazole entirely—it’s life-saving for many. But you do need to know the signs: burning pain, loss of balance, trouble feeling heat or cold, or a feeling like you’re wearing socks when you’re barefoot.

There’s no blood test for this. No X-ray. Diagnosis comes from timing: symptoms started after taking the drug, and they improve after stopping it. If your doctor dismisses it as "just anxiety" or "aging," push back. Bring up metronidazole neuropathy by name. Many of the posts below show how people tracked their symptoms, found the link, and got help. You’ll see real stories about lab monitoring, how long recovery takes, and what alternatives exist if you need another antibiotic. This isn’t theoretical. It’s happening to people right now—and the more you know, the faster you can act.