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Metronidazole vs. Miconazole

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Metronidazole

(Flagyl)

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Miconazole

(Monistat)

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Summary for Metronidazole

Prescription only

Metronidazole (Flagyl) is an oral antibiotic for adults and children. It's used to treat certain bacterial and parasitic infections, including bacterial vaginosis (a type of vaginal bacteria infection) and trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection, or STI). Metronidazole (Flagyl) is taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day. Some common side effects of this medication include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking and for 3 days after stopping metronidazole (Flagyl) because this combination can cause a serious reaction. Metronidazole (Flagyl) is available as a lower-cost generic.

Indications for Metronidazole

Treatment of certain bacterial and parasitic infections, including:

Pros and Cons for Metronidazole

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Can be used to treat different types of bacterial infection
  • Immediate-release formulations can be taken with or without food

Cons

Common Side Effects for Metronidazole

Please note: These are common side effects reported by people who took extended-release metronidazole (Flagyl)

  • Headache (18%)
  • Inflammation of the vagina (15%)
  • Nausea (10%)
  • Metallic taste (9%)
  • Flu-like symptoms (6%)

Warnings for Metronidazole

  • Possible risk of cancer
  • Serious allergic reactions
  • Brain and nerve problems
  • Liver and kidney problems
  • Risk of fungal infection
  • Risk of drug resistance
  • Lower white blood cell counts
  • Interaction with other medications

Summary for Miconazole

Over-the-counter

Miconazole (Monistat) is used to treat a vaginal yeast infection in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available over the counter as vaginal creams, inserts/suppositories, or combination kits. The entire treatment lasts 1, 3, or 7 days, depending on the product. Common side effects include mild vaginal burning, irritation, and itching.

Indications for Miconazole

Pros and Cons for Miconazole

Pros

  • Available over the counter
  • Many treatment options (1, 3, or 7 days)
  • Targets infection directly at the site

Cons

  • Can cause vaginal burning, itching, or irritation
  • Might be messy or cause leakage
  • Requires vaginal insertion

Common Side Effects for Miconazole

Warnings for Miconazole

  • Damage to condoms and diaphragms
  • Symptoms don't go away

Prices with our coupons for Metronidazole vs. Miconazole

Price Card Drug Icon
Metronidazole14 tablets / 500mg
$8.07$13.97
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Price Card Drug Icon
Miconazole30 tubes / 2%
$10.23$13.95
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