Can You Take Tinidazole with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Never drink alcohol with tinidazole — like metronidazole, it causes a severe disulfiram-like reaction with vomiting, flushing, and rapid heart rate.
Is it safe to take Tinidazole with Alcohol?
Tinidazole, like metronidazole, causes a severe disulfiram-like reaction when combined with alcohol. Acetaldehyde accumulates in the blood, causing intense flushing, nausea, vomiting, headache, palpitations, and severe general distress. The interaction applies to even small amounts of alcohol and continues for 72 hours (3 days) after the last tinidazole dose — longer than metronidazole.
How do Tinidazole and Alcohol interact?
Like metronidazole, tinidazole inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2), causing acetaldehyde accumulation when alcohol is consumed. The reaction can also occur with topical alcohol, alcohol-containing mouthwash, and certain foods prepared with alcohol.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: FDA tinidazole drug label — disulfiram-like reaction; OpenFDA drug label data.
Who should be careful?
Everyone taking tinidazole. Avoid ALL alcohol — including in foods, mouthwashes, and other medicines.
What if I've already taken Tinidazole and Alcohol?
If you have taken tinidazole and drunk alcohol and feel severely unwell (flushing, vomiting, rapid heart rate), rest and call 111 or 999 if symptoms are severe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol on tinidazole?
Absolutely not. Tinidazole causes a severe reaction with alcohol — avoid all alcohol for 72 hours (3 days) after your last dose.
Is tinidazole like metronidazole with alcohol?
Yes, the interaction is the same. Both cause a disulfiram-like reaction with acetaldehyde accumulation when combined with alcohol.
How long after tinidazole can I drink?
Wait at least 72 hours (3 full days) after your last tinidazole dose before drinking any alcohol — longer than metronidazole's 48-hour restriction.
What if I accidentally drank on tinidazole?
You will likely feel very unwell. Rest, drink water. If symptoms are severe (rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, chest pain), call 999.