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Meds & Media, Abuja (2025)

06/06/2025

MENSTRUAL HYGIENE: A HEALTHY CONVERSATION

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,
It’s Friday! I hope you’ve had a productive week. Let’s wrap up our discourse on a very important topic: Menstrual Hygiene.

WHAT IS MENSTRUATION?

Menstruation is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the va**na. It is the most visible phase of the menstrual cycle and is often used as a marker for the beginning of a new cycle.

The menstrual cycle is a natural, hormonally regulated process during which a woman’s body prepares for pregnancy each month. It begins on the first day of menstruation and ends just before the next period. While a typical cycle lasts 28 days, it can range anywhere from 14 to 35 days, and that’s perfectly normal.

During the pre-period stage, many women experience pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS) such as:

Headaches

Bloating

Acne

Breast tenderness

During menstruation, some may also experience:

Pain or cramps

Vomiting

Constipation

If these symptoms interfere with your daily life, please consult a healthcare provider.

THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT MENSTRUATION

Despite the discomfort, menstruation is a good sign for two key reasons:

1. It shows you’re a healthy female.

2. It confirms you are not pregnant — good news, isn’t it?

WHY MENSTRUAL HYGIENE MATTERS

Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is essential. Here’s why:

Prevents Infections: Poor hygiene can lead to bacterial and fungal infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Boosts Comfort: Good hygiene prevents discomfort, irritation, and odor.

Supports Confidence: Feeling fresh and clean improves self-esteem.

Reduces Anxiety: Knowing you’re prepared eases stress and helps combat stigma.

HOW TO MAINTAIN MENSTRUAL HYGIENE

Be Mentally and Financially Prepared:
Stock up on pads, tampons, or other products before your period starts.

Explore Product Options:
If pads don’t work for you, tampons, menstrual cups, and reusable pads are safe alternatives.

Use Technology:
Apps like Flo, Periq, Menstreaze, MyPeriod, and Clover help track your cycle, predict your next period, and prepare in advance.

MANAGING MENSTRUATION IN SHARED SPACES

As thoughtful and demure ladies, here are a few practical tips for navigating menstruation in communal environments like hostels or classrooms:

Be Prepared: Always carry extra pads or tampons in your bag.

Dispose Properly: Wrap used products in tissue or disposal bags. Don’t flush them.

Stay Clean: Wash any stained underwear or bedding promptly.

Respect Shared Spaces: Leave restrooms clean and be discreet with waste.

IN CONCLUSION

Menstruation is a biological process, not something to be ashamed of. What’s important is maintaining top-notch hygiene so you can stay healthy, confident, and in control.

Let’s continue to normalize this conversation and support one another in embracing our bodies with dignity and care.

02/06/2025

PERIOD PAIN? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PAINKILLERS THAT ACTUALLY HELP

Hey guys! Let’s talk about something half the world deals with but doesn’t get talked about nearly enough, period pain. If you’ve ever curled up in bed, skipped work, or popped random pills just to survive your period, this post is for you. Let’s break down which painkillers actually help, how to use them safely, and why understanding menstrual health is essential for everyone.

Also, Wednesday, May 28th 2025 was World Menstrual Hygiene Day, and in line with the celebrations, every article that will be released this week will be geared towards improving Menstrual Hygiene. It’s all about smashing the stigma, spreading facts, and making sure no one suffers in silence. Let's keep that energy going by talking real about period pain.

Why Does Menstruation Hurt So Much?

This major culprit here are the prostaglandins. From our earlier article on Aspirin- The Do-it-all drug, we shed more light on prostaglandins but for the sake of those that haven’t read it, we will go over it again.

Side note: Go back to our page and read all our articles, they will be beneficial to you!

Let’s get back to today’s topic, Prostaglandin are chemicals released during menstruation that make the uterus contract to shed its lining. Higher levels = stronger cramps. Some people feel mild discomfort, others feel like they’re being punched from the inside. It’s real, it’s valid, and it deserves proper relief.

The Real MVPs: Painkillers That Work

Let’s look at the main types of painkillers that can help during menstruation:
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
✅ Top choice for period pain
Examples: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Mefenamic acid
How they work: They reduce prostaglandins, meaning less inflammation and fewer cramps.
How to take them: Start as soon as your period begins or even a day before if your cycle is regular. Take with food to protect your stomach.

💡 Pro tip: Mefenamic acid is often prescribed specifically for period pain and can be a game-changer.

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

✅ Good for mild to moderate pain
How it works: Doesn’t target inflammation, but helps dull the pain.
When to use: If you can’t tolerate NSAIDs or your cramps aren’t too severe.
Safe for most people, including those with stomach sensitivities.

Combination Painkillers

Some products combine paracetamol + caffeine , or NSAIDs + antispasmodics for better effect.
Check labels carefully, and avoid doubling up on ingredients!

When Should You Worry?

Pain that keeps you in bed for days or interferes with daily life isn’t “just how it is.” It might be a sign of something like endometriosis or fibroids, and you deserve to be heard, not dismissed.

📣 Your pain is valid. Don’t suffer in silence, talk to your doctor if your usual meds aren’t cutting it.

Period Pain Relief: Do’s and Don’ts

DO:
* Take NSAIDs early (not hours after the pain has peaked).
* Stay hydrated.
* Use heat packs or warm baths for extra relief.
* Track your cycle to prepare ahead of time.

DON’T:
* Mix meds without checking labels (e.g., don’t take two NSAIDs at once).
* Take higher doses than recommended—more isn’t always better.
* Self-medicate every month without ever checking in with a healthcare provider.

Natural Alternatives?

Some people find relief with:
*Ginger or turmeric tea
* Exercise (even light walking or yoga)
*Magnesium supplements
*Acupressure or massage

These might not replace painkillers, but they can support your body when things get rough.

Menstrual Health is Health

World Menstrual Hygiene Day reminded us that managing your period is more than just pads and tampons. It’s about dignity, education, and access to safe care. And yes, that includes knowing what pain relief options exist!

👉 No one should feel like they have to “tough it out” or stay silent about menstrual pain. Knowledge = power, and talking about it openly helps everyone.

Final Thoughts

Menstrual pain is common, but being miserable every month isn’t normal. The right painkiller, taken the right way, can change your whole experience. Whether it’s ibuprofen, paracetamol, or just having someone who gets it, support matters.

So next time your period shows up uninvited, don’t let it boss you around. You’ve got options, and you deserve relief.

💬 Got a go-to remedy that works wonders for your cramps? Drop it in the comments!
📲 Like, share, and tag someone who needs this info.
🩸 Let’s keep the conversation going, all year long.

30/05/2025

💧 “Na drip dem set?” Yes—but do you know what’s inside that drip?

In Nigeria, we often trust hospitals and clinics to “set a drip” without asking questions. But not all IV fluids are the same. Some can hydrate, others deliver energy, and some are even dangerous if wrongly given. 🧪

Mistakes happen—even with trained medical staff. That’s why it’s important to know what’s going into your body. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or a health worker, understanding IV fluids can save lives.

📲 Swipe through this post to see the most common IV fluids used in hospitals and when (or when not) to use them.

Stay informed. Stay safe.
✊

28/05/2025

I know we’ve all probably seen someone trying to give Piriton to a restless baby just to make them sleep 😅

Or that uncle popping multiple Allernix or Benylin Allergy tablets like sweets during harmattan!

Maybe even that aunty who swears Claritin is her daily “immune booster” 🙃

But how much do we really know about antihistamines?

Antihistamines are some of the most misused meds in Nigeria. Whether it’s for allergies, catarrh, or “just in case,” too many people are using them the wrong way — and believing myths that could put their health at risk.

👀 Today, we're busting the 6 biggest myths about antihistamines — from whether they all cause sleepiness, to whether “natural” is really better.

✅ Plus, we’ve got smart tips for using them correctly
✅ And a quick guide on who shouldn’t be taking them carelessly

Let’s drop the guesswork and start using our meds wisely 💊
Tag someone who needs to see this!

26/05/2025

CYPROHEPTADINE: NOT JUST AN “APETAMIN” PILL

Today’s drug of the week is a common drug we find on the shelf, cyproheptadine. If you take brand name drugs such as Super ApetitTM or ApetaminTM, you are taking this drug and you might want to hang in here so we could talk a little bit. Cyproheptadine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines; what they do is block the actions of a group of biochemicals in your body known as histamines. Cyproheptadine in particular is known for its anticholinergic and antiserotonergic functions.

This medication is currently approved for the treatment of chronic allergy, seasonal rhinitis, urticaria, dermatitis and conjunctivitis. Off-label uses (uses without approval) however include in stimulating appetite, migraine headache prophylaxis, treating spinal cord spasticity, as an antidote to counter the effect of serotonergic drugs and also in treating s*xual dysfunction.

Cyproheptadine usually comes in either a tablet, oral solution or oral syrup. In whatever form, you should make sure you’re taking the right amounts.

Cyproheptadine is usually prescribed (for approved label uses) at 4 – 32mg every 8hours and not exceeding 0.5mg/kg body weight. It is also important to know what not to take with this medication to avoid unwanted effects. If you are taking a class of medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g. tranylcypromine, selegiline, rasagiline, phenelzine) for depression or panic disorder, you shouldn’t take this drug. Hence why you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this or any medication.

Before and while taking cyproheptadine, you also need to be aware of potential side effects (unwanted effects) such as its ability to cause drowsiness, muscle weakness, palpitations, tremors, insomnia, rash, skin inflammation, painful urination, wheezing, impotence, dryness of mouth, throat and nose, tinnitus and blurred vision. However not everyone gets these side effects. Also, recent studies have reported the potential for cyproheptadine to cause acute liver toxicity and potential for addiction.

IS CYPROHEPTADINE A PILL FOR WEIGHT GAIN AND FOR SLEEP?

This is a very common question and a reason many patients request for this medication. Unfortunately, the answer is a no (or not really). While cyproheptadine has great orexigenic (stimulates appetite) and sedating (causes sleep) effects, it is not approved for treating or use for weight gain or as a sleep-aid. Weight gain is a rather complex metabolic process which may or may not be influenced by the effect of cyproheptadine. However, it is may be prescribed to stimulate appetite especially in children. Sedation is a side effect of cyproheptadine and we would not advice anyone to use this medication for sleep or use them during active hours or while driving.
Who should not use Cyproheptadine?
Now, you’ve been to the doctor or not and have decided to use cyproheptadine. However, hold up a little bit big man, some people shouldn’t use this drug at all and you might fall into that category. People who shouldn’t use this med include, premature babies and neonates, the elderly, nursing women, those with glaucoma, peptic ulcer, prostatic hypertrophy or those who have had a history of hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also a pregnancy category B drug which means it showed no risk in animal and human studies or it showed minor risk in animal studies and no risk in humans. It is therefore considered acceptable for use in pregnancy.

OUR FINAL VERDICT:

Cyproheptadine since its launch in the 1960s has been a multipurpose drug, primarily used for treating and managing allergic conditions. However, it has been popularized due to its off-label uses for stimulating appetite, as a sleep aid and in treating s*xual dysfunction. However, cyproheptadine is not a weight gain pill nor a sleeping pill and should be used with caution in these scenarios. Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.

Cheers and see you here again on Wednesday

23/05/2025

HIV: Living, not just surviving

Hello fam! I hope you’ve been enjoying our HIV/AIDS awareness series this week. Today, we shift our focus to a critical aspect of our discourse: how individuals living with HIV can maintain a healthy, fulfilling life.

First and foremost, HIV is not a death sentence. With the right care and lifestyle choices, people living with HIV can thrive, contributing to society’s growth.
Here are some practical health tips:

1. Stick to Your Medication

Adhering strictly to your antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential. Taking your medication as prescribed helps suppress the virus, maintain a healthy immune system, and reduce the risk of transmission. Also, attend routine check-ups to monitor your viral load and CD4 count.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene

Proper hygiene prevents everyday infections. Wash your hands frequently, clean raw foods thoroughly, and drink only safe, clean water. Good hygiene is a simple but powerful health protector for people of all status.

3. Stay Active

Moderate physical activity such as walking, stretching, swimming, or yoga, can boost your immunity, improve heart health, reduce stress, and lift your mood.

4. Eat Well

Nutrition plays a vital role in managing HIV. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated and minimize your intake of processed, sugary, or fatty foods.

5. Protect Yourself from Infections

Get recommended vaccinations (such as COVID-19 and hepatitis B), and take extra precautions around people who are ill. Use face masks when necessary and keep hand sanitizer handy.

6. Avoid Harmful Substances

Alcohol, to***co, and recreational drugs can weaken your immune system and interfere with medications. Limiting or avoiding them supports your overall health and treatment goals.

7. Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power. Stay informed through trusted sources—ask questions during clinic visits, read reliable health materials, and consider joining support groups. Staying informed keeps you in control of your health.

8. Be Thoughtful About Disclosure

While it's important to know your status, sharing it should be done thoughtfully. Disclose only to trusted individuals,like your healthcare provider or partner, while prioritizing your safety and privacy.

Living with HIV is a journey, but it can be a healthy, vibrant one with the right support and lifestyle. Let’s continue breaking the stigma and spreading facts, not fear.

Thank you for reading. Please share this information far and wide. Until next time, stay safe, stay informed, and stay healthy!

21/05/2025

HIV: MYTHS VS FACTS

In Nigeria, HIV is still heavily misunderstood, even though awareness has improved over the years. Myths spread faster than facts, and that can lead to discrimination, fear, or even risky behavior. For those living with HIV and people who just want to stay informed, this post breaks down the most common myths and the real facts behind them.
Let us set the record straight by debunking the most common (and ludicrous) myths about HIV:

1. “HIV is a death sentence.”

FACT: HIV is not a death sentence. Thanks to antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV can live long, healthy, and productive lives — just like anyone else.
Early diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, where it can’t even be transmitted.
HIV is now a manageable chronic condition — not a death warrant.

2. “You can get HIV by hugging, sharing utensils, or touching someone.”

FACT: HIV is not spread by casual contact. You cannot get HIV from:
Hugging or kissing
Sharing spoons, plates, or cups
Using the same toilet seat
Shaking hands
Sitting next to someone with HIV

The virus only spreads through:
Unprotected s*x with an infected person
Sharing needles or sharp objects
Blood transfusion with infected blood (rare today)
From mother to baby during birth or breastfeeding (if untreated)

3. “Only promiscuous people get HIV.”

FACT: HIV doesn’t discriminate. You can get infected from a single unprotected encounter, blood transfusion, or from birth. It has nothing to do with your lifestyle, status, religion, or marital situation.
Even faithful partners can get infected if their spouse is positive.

4. “You can tell someone has HIV just by looking at them.”

FACT: Most people with HIV look perfectly healthy, especially if they are on treatment.
The only way to know someone’s status is through a proper test. Making assumptions based on looks is dangerous and unfair.

5. “If I test negative today, I’m 100% safe.”

FACT: Not necessarily. After exposure to HIV, there is a window period (usually 2 to 12 weeks) during which the virus may not be detectable yet.
If you test too soon, you may get a false negative. That’s why follow-up testing is recommended if you’ve had recent risky exposure.

6. “Taking HIV medication means you’re cured.”

FACT: Antiretroviral drugs control the virus but do not cure it.
The goal is viral suppression — keeping the virus so low that it can’t harm you or be passed on. But if you stop taking your meds, the virus will come back stronger.
Never stop ART without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

7. “HIV can be transmitted through witchcraft or spiritual attack.”

FACT: HIV is a biological virus, not a spiritual curse.
It spreads through known, medically proven means. Believing it’s from juju only causes stigma and delays proper treatment. Let’s deal with science, not superstition.

8. “A woman with HIV can’t have children.”

FACT: Women living with HIV can have healthy, HIV-negative babies — as long as they are on the right treatment.
With proper medical care during pregnancy and delivery, and avoiding breastfeeding (in some cases), the risk of mother-to-child transmission is very low.

9. “HIV-positive people shouldn’t be in relationships.”

FACT: People living with HIV can love and be loved, marry, and even have children — safely.
With treatment and medical guidance, HIV-positive people can have fulfilling relationships. In fact, when the virus is undetectable, it cannot be transmitted (a concept called U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable).

10. “There’s no need to get tested if I feel fine.”

FACT: HIV can stay in your body for years without symptoms. The only way to know your status is to get tested.
Early detection = better outcomes. Don’t wait until you fall sick.
Everyone should test at least once a year. It’s free, confidential, and could save your life.

To sum things up, misinformation kills faster than the virus. The more we know, the safer we are — not just for ourselves, but for others too. HIV is no longer a mystery, and knowledge is our best weapon. So, let us replace myths with facts, shame with support, and fear with empowerment.

Get tested. Know your status. End the stigma.

19/05/2025

FIRST-LINE HIV DRUGS: THE FRONTLINE DEFENSE YOU NEED TO KNOW
Hey everyone! Let’s take a minute to shine the light on a powerful group of medications that have transformed HIV from a deadly virus into a manageable condition. These drugs are called First-line HIV drugs. If you or someone you know is living with HIV, this post will be pivotal in improving your knowledge on what these meds are, how they work, and why sticking to them is literally life-saving.

What Are First-Line HIV Drugs?
First-line HIV drugs are the initial combination of antiretroviral therapy (ART) prescribed when someone is diagnosed with HIV. These aren't just random pills, they’re carefully chosen for being the most effective, safest, and easiest to take in the long run.

Most people living with HIV will start on a single daily pill that combines three different medications. It’s simple, it’s powerful, and it works.

Why Combination Therapy?
HIV is sneaky. It mutates quickly, and if only one drug is used, the virus can become resistant in no time. That’s why doctors use a combo of drugs that attack the virus in different ways. This process makes it much harder for HIV to adapt or escape. It’s teamwork at its best.

The Core Components of First-Line HIV Regimens
Most first-line regimens consist of three drugs, usually grouped into two categories:

1. Two NRTIs (Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors): These are responsible for blocking an enzyme HIV needs to replicate.
Common options: Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), Emtricitabine (FTC), Lamivudine (3TC).

2. One INSTI (Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor):
Stops HIV from inserting itself into your DNA.
Star player: Dolutegravir (DTG). This drug is highly potent, low resistance risk, and well-tolerated.

Popular First-Line Combinations
TDF + 3TC (or FTC) + DTG— the current WHO-recommended first-line combo
TAF + FTC + DTG— an alternative with fewer kidney and bone side effects
ABC (Abacavir) + 3TC + DTG — another option, especially when Tenofovir isn’t suitable (Note: Only after testing for HLA-B 5701 to avoid severe reactions)

Many of these are now available as single-pill regimens like TLD (Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir), which means fewer pills, better adherence, and more freedom for patients.

Why Dolutegravir is a Game Changer
Dolutegravir (DTG) is the MVP in most first-line regimens. Why?
Strong viral suppression
Fewer side effects
Low chance of resistance
Safe in pregnancy
Once-daily dosing
It’s fast becoming the global standard—especially in low- and middle-income countries where simplicity and durability are key.

Starting ART: What You Need to Know

Start ASAP: As soon as HIV is diagnosed, treatment should begin. The earlier, the better for long-term health.
Adherence is EVERYTHING: Missing doses gives HIV a chance to bounce back and mutate. Stick to your schedule.

Side effects?
Most people do great, but initial symptoms like nausea, headaches, or sleep issues may occur. They usually settle within a few weeks.

Always report anything unusual to the doctor or nurses. Your care team is there to help.

What About Drug Interactions?
These meds are powerful, but they’re also sensitive. Be cautious if you’re on:

TB drugs (e.g., rifampicin)
Antacids or supplements with calcium/magnesium
Seizure medications
Some herbal remedies (especially, St. John’s Wort!)

Always tell your healthcare provider what else you’re taking, even vitamins. This will help them make informed adjustments to your drug regimen.

HIV in 2025: Undetectable = Untransmittable

Let’s not forget this game-changing truth: When your viral load is undetectable, you can’t transmit HIV s*xually. First-line ART makes that possible.

Treatment isn’t just about living longer, it’s about living fully, confidently, and safely.

Final Thoughts
First-line HIV drugs are the real MVPs in the fight against HIV. They’re safe, effective, and life-transforming but only if taken correctly and consistently.

Don’t skip doses
Don’t self-medicate
Don’t hide from treatment

HIV is no longer a death sentence but ignoring it can still be dangerous.

Let’s spread facts, not fear. Knowledge saves lives.

Like, share, and tag someone who needs to see this. We’re here to support a world where living with HIV means living well.

16/05/2025

Hello fam,
Hope you had a productive week! In today's episode of General Health Tips, let's talk about the importance of Rest and Recharge, after all, it's Fridayyyyyyyyy (TGIF)

Taking care of your physical body is as important as your mental health. The body functions better when rested and with a calm state of mind. Making out time to rest and recharge especially with the constant hustling can be very challenging. Here are some tips:

Prioritize Rest
Rest is not a waste of time. Schedule time daily for activities you enjoy. Your sleep time should be non-negotiable. The recommended amount of sleep for healthy adults is seven to nine hours. Getting less than the recommended hours of sleep regularly predisposes the individual to higher risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and weight gain.

Manage Stress
If you had a stressful week, then recharging before it's Monday should be topmost on your mind. Identify stress triggers and develop healthy coping strategies. Coping strategies differ as stress might be physical, mental, and emotional. However, to cope with stress, the following are recommended;
All work and no play? Totally wrong for your health! Carve out time for things and people you love. Iintentionally put more dates in your calendar to enjoy time for fun, either alone or with others.
Get your muscles moving! Bodily exercise is good for your overall health. Moving your body on a regular basis balances the nervous system and increases blood circulation, helping to flush out stress hormones. Even a daily 20 minute walk makes a significant difference.
Limit alcohol and stimulant use.
Alcohol, ni****ne and caffeine may temporarily relieve stress but have negative health impacts and can make stress worse in the long run.

If you work remotely or have a demanding work schedule, consider incorporating exercise into your schedule. Simple exercises such as walking, stretches. Don't forget to take breaks while you work, your body and mind will be grateful.

Eat Well, Stay Hydrated
Nourish your body and mind with healthy meals. Eating healthy doesn't need to be expensive, explore fruits and vegetables that are locally available yet nutritious. Reduce junk food, extra spice, and ensure you drink plenty of water.

New Week, New Goals
So, as the weekend winds down, spend some time planning for the new week. Break your weekly target into smaller actionable goals. This makes them less overwhelming and helps you stay productive.

You should consider these tips because
Resting improves cognitive function. So, if you would like to stay on top of your game at your workplace, take this weekend to rest and recharge.
Regular resting and recharging lowers blood pressure,reduces the risk of heart disease, regulates the hormones that control appetite.
Resting improves overall productivity and replenishes energy. This is why you feel strengthened after a nap.

As an additional tip, Like, Share, Comment!
Thank you for sticking with us.
Have a smooth weekend and productive new week!

14/05/2025

FLAGYL CURES ALL STIs? LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

If you’ve ever had a conversation about “infection” in Nigeria, chances are you’ve heard someone mention Flagyl. It’s one of the most commonly used antibiotics in the country — and also one of the most misunderstood. A popular belief is that Flagyl can cure all s*xually transmitted infections (STIs). But is that really true?
We’ll break it down.

What Is Flagyl?
Flagyl is the brand name for a drug called Metronidazole. It’s an antibiotic and antiprotozoal, which means it fights certain bacteria and parasites. It’s effective for treating:
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
Trichomoniasis (a s*xually transmitted infection caused by a parasite)
Some dental and stomach infections
Certain infections caused by anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that thrive without oxygen)
In Nigeria, Flagyl is available as tablets, syrups, and sometimes as injections.

So, Does It Cure STIs?
Yes and no.
Yes, Flagyl can cure some STIs — like Trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite, and sometimes Bacterial Vaginosis, which is not technically an STI but can be s*xually associated.
No, it does not cure all STIs. It is completely ineffective against many others, especially those caused by different organisms. So, using Flagyl to treat gonorrhoea or chlamydia is like using paracetamol for appendicitis — it won’t work.

Why Do People Think Flagyl Works for Everything?

1. It relieves symptoms.
Some people feel better after taking Flagyl because it may reduce discharge or foul smell (especially if there’s BV). But that doesn’t mean the real cause — like gonorrhoea or chlamydia — is gone.

2. Over-the-counter access.
In Nigeria, many people can walk into a pharmacy or patent medicine store and buy Flagyl without a prescription. It’s become a household name for anything “down there.”

3. Word of mouth.
“Take Flagyl after unprotected s*x,” “Just use Flagyl and Ampiclox,” or “It cleared mine, it will clear yours.” These are common lines — but dangerous.

4. Lack of proper testing.
Many Nigerians don’t test before treating infections. So when Flagyl happens to reduce symptoms, it gets the credit — even if it wasn’t the right treatment.

The Danger of Self-Medicating with Flagyl

Flagyl is not paracetamol. It’s a prescription-only antibiotic, and improper use has consequences.

1. Drug resistance:
Overuse or misuse of Flagyl can lead to antibiotic resistance, making it useless over time.

2. Masking real infections:
Taking Flagyl may reduce some symptoms but not cure the actual STI, which continues to spread and may cause complications like infertility or chronic pelvic pain.

3. Side effects:
Common side effects include:
Nausea
Metallic taste in the mouth
Dizziness
Diarrhoea

More serious ones include:
Nerve damage (with long-term use)
Allergic reactions

4. Drug interactions:
Flagyl should never be taken with alcohol. The combination can cause severe vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and headaches.
Proper Treatment of STIs

If you think you have an STI — discharge, pain during urination, itching, sores — the right step is:

1. Get tested.
You need a proper diagnosis to know what you’re dealing with.

2. See a qualified health provider.
A doctor or pharmacist will recommend the right medication, often a combination of antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin and ceftriaxone for gonorrhoea/chlamydia).

3. Treat your partner too.
If you’re in a s*xual relationship, both of you must be treated to avoid re-infection.

4. Use protection.
Condoms reduce your risk of STIs significantly. Prevention is always better than cure.

Popular Misconceptions About Flagyl

Bust a few common myths with us:

“Flagyl clears all toilet infections.”
Truth: “Toilet infection” is not a medical diagnosis. Many things can cause va**nal symptoms. You need to know what exactly you're treating.

“Take Flagyl after s*x to wash your system.”
Truth: It doesn’t “wash” anything. This practice can give a false sense of safety and cause resistance.

“Flagyl + Ampiclox = automatic cure.”
Truth: That combo is not a one-size-fits-all remedy. It can miss the actual infection and build resistance.

“Flagyl is harmless, you can use it anytime.”
Truth: No antibiotic is harmless when misused.

The Bottom Line

Flagyl is a useful drug — but it is not a cure for all STIs. Relying on it for every va**nal or urinary complaint is risky and often ineffective. The best thing you can do is:
Get tested
Use prescribed treatment
Avoid self-medication

If you suspect an STI, talk to a healthcare provider — not your neighbour or Google.

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Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00