Riam Side Effects

Riam is an antibiotic that is used to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections. Like any medication, Riam can cause side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects of Riam may include.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea or vomiting: Some people may experience Riam feelings of nausea or may actually vomit.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Riam.
• Metallic taste: A metallic or bitter taste in the mouth is a known side effect associated with Riam.
• Loss of appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite.
• Diarrhea or constipation: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation can occur.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is a possible side effect of Riam.
• Dark urine: Riam can cause urine to become dark in color.
• Dry mouth: Some people may experience a dry or unpleasant taste in the mouth.
• Furry tongue: A coating on the tongue or a “furry” sensation may occur.
• Peripheral neuropathy: In rare cases, Riam may cause nerve damage, leading to symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the extremities.

Less Common Side Effects

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Riam and may experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Seizures: In rare cases, Riam has been associated with seizures. This risk may be increased in individuals with a history of seizures or certain neurological conditions.
• Peripheral neuropathy: Although mentioned as a less common side effect, peripheral neuropathy can be a serious complication. It may cause symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities.
• Blood disorders: Riam can affect blood cells, leading to conditions such as leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells), thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelets), or anemia.
• Liver problems: In rare instances, Riam may cause liver problems, which can manifest as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Pancreatitis: Although uncommon, Riam has been associated with pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain.

Riam is one of the leading brands of Metronidazole, manufactured and marketed by Stanley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Riam is available in Tablet and Suspension Forms.

Riam Tablet : 400mg strength.

Riam Syrup : 200mg/5ml strength.

1. Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Riam and for at least 48 hours after completing the course of treatment. The combination of Riam and alcohol can cause severe reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headaches, and flushing.
2. Warfarin: Riam may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. If you are taking warfarin, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage and monitor your blood clotting time more closely.
3. Lithium: Riam can increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity. If you are taking lithium, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage and monitor your lithium levels.
4. Phenytoin and other anticonvulsants: Riam may increase the blood levels of phenytoin and other anticonvulsant medications, potentially leading to toxicity. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.
5. Cimetidine: Cimetidine, a medication used to reduce stomach acid, may increase the levels of Riam in the blood, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
6. Busulfan: Riam may increase the toxicity of busulfan, a medication used in certain cancer treatments.
7. Disulfiram: Disulfiram is a medication used to discourage alcohol consumption by causing unpleasant reactions. Combining disulfiram with Riam may increase the risk of neurological side effects.
8. Certain anticoagulants: Riam may enhance the effects of certain anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.