Trichomoniasis Treatment – How to Get Rid of the Infection Fast

Got diagnosed with trichomoniasis and wondering what to do next? You’re not alone. It’s a common STI that many people clear up with the right meds and a few simple steps. Below we break down the meds doctors usually write, what to expect, and how to keep it from coming back.

What Doctors Usually Prescribe

The go‑to drug for trichomoniasis is metronidazole. Most doctors give a single 2‑gram dose you take at once, or a 500 mg dose twice a day for seven days. Both ways work; the single dose is easier if you can handle the quick hit.

If metronidazole doesn’t suit you—maybe you’ve had side effects before—or if the infection comes back, the backup is tinidazole. It’s taken as a single 2‑gram pill and tends to cause fewer stomach issues.

Both meds are antibiotics that target the parasite causing trichomoniasis. They’re safe for most adults, but you should avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after metronidazole and 72 hours after tinidazole. Mixing can lead to a nasty flushing reaction.

People who are pregnant can still use metronidazole, but doctors usually split the dose into 500 mg twice a day for seven days to lower any risk. Always follow the exact prescription—stopping early can let the parasite survive.

Tips to Boost Recovery and Prevent Re‑infection

Finishing the pill isn’t the whole story. Here’s what helps the cure stick:

• Tell your partner(s). Anyone who’s had sex with you in the past month should get treated at the same time, even if they feel fine.
• Abstain from sex until you and your partner finish the medication and any symptoms are gone. This cuts the chance of swapping the infection back and forth.
• Skip alcohol during treatment and for the recommended waiting period. It avoids the unpleasant flushing and protects the drug’s effectiveness.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking water helps your body process the medication and eases any mild stomach upset.
• Watch for side effects. Common ones include nausea, a metallic taste, and mild headache. If you get severe vomiting, dark urine, or a rash, call your doctor right away.

After finishing the course, a follow‑up test isn’t always required, but if symptoms linger for more than a week, see your doctor again. Sometimes a second round of treatment is needed.

Good hygiene habits—like washing the genital area with mild soap and water—don’t cure trichomoniasis but can reduce irritation and make you feel more comfortable during recovery.

Finally, protect yourself in the future. Consistent condom use cuts the risk of most STIs, including trichomoniasis. If you have multiple partners, consider regular screening—early detection makes treatment painless.

Bottom line: a short course of metronidazole or tinidazole, honest communication with partners, and a few lifestyle tweaks will clear trichomoniasis for most people. Follow the prescription, avoid alcohol, and you’ll be on the road to feeling normal again in just a week or so.