The NHS has issued a fresh alert to patients taking a range of common medications, warning them to be aware of a specific and unusual side effect: a persistent metallic taste in the mouth.
Which Medications Cause the Metallic Taste?
The health service highlights that the antibiotic metronidazole is a frequent culprit. This drug is prescribed for skin conditions, mouth infections, dental abscesses, and bacterial issues like infected insect bites. Patients might recognise it under brand names such as Flagyl, Metrogel, Rozex, and Vaginyl.
Another medication linked to the symptom is zopiclone, a sleeping pill used for short-term treatment of severe insomnia. Alongside the metallic taste, zopiclone is known to commonly cause a dry mouth and daytime drowsiness, as clearly stated in its official NHS information.
Other Causes and How to Manage It
The NHS points out that a metallic taste is not always drug-related. Several other conditions can trigger it, including gum disease, indigestion, pregnancy, colds, and sinus infections. It is also a well-known side effect of cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
For those whose symptom stems from poor oral health, maintaining rigorous hygiene and regular dental check-ups is advised. Patients undergoing cancer treatment are often recommended to try eating strongly flavoured foods, such as ginger or spices, to help mask the unpleasant taste.
Official NHS Advice for Patients
If you suspect your prescribed medication is causing a metallic taste, the NHS guidance is clear: do not stop taking your medicine. Instead, you should seek advice from a pharmacist for management tips. Stopping medication without consulting a doctor or pharmacist could be harmful.
The health service recommends booking a non-urgent appointment with your GP if the metallic taste persists without an obvious cause or does not go away. This step is important to rule out any other underlying health conditions that may need attention.
