The NHS has issued a cautionary note for individuals experiencing a “metallic” taste, urging them not to dismiss this symptom. Although the sensation can stem from various sources, certain underlying causes may require prompt medical evaluation.

According to the NHS website, while a metallic taste isn’t often a cause for alarm, addressing the issue effectively depends largely on its origin. Thankfully, there are measures to mitigate this unpleasant taste, which could simply be a side effect of medications or, for some, a symptom of pregnancy.

Several factors could contribute to this condition:

Why do I have a metallic taste in my mouth?

Experts highlight that those undergoing treatment with metronidazole might notice this metallic taste. This medication is commonly prescribed for tackling skin infections, rosacea, and oral infections such as gum disease and dental abscesses.

• gum disease
• taking certain medicines, like metronidazole or zopiclone
• cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiotherapy
• colds, sinus infections and other airway problems
• indigestion
• being pregnant
• a lost or changed sense of smell

Metronidazole is also effective against conditions like bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Moreover, it is used to address infected insect bites, skin ulcers, bedsores, and wounds, along with preventing bacterial and parasitic infections.

It’s also used to treat conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Additionally, it is used for infected insect bites, skin ulcers, bed sores and wounds, as well as to treat and prevent bacterial and parasitic infections.

This medication has brand names including:

• Acea
• Anabact
• Flagyl
• Metrogel
• Metrosa
• Rosiced
• Rozex
• Vaginyl
• Zidoval
• Zyomet

Zopiclone is also mentioned as a common cause for this issue. This is a type of sleeping pill that can be taken for short-term treatment of severe insomnia. In its key facts, it warns: “Common side effects are a metallic taste in your mouth, a dry mouth, and daytime sleepiness.”

How to get rid of metallic taste in mouth

If you have a metallic taste in your mouth, the steps you can take to alleviate it depend on the cause. It will sometimes go away by itself.

• Gum disease: Regularly brush your teeth, use dental floss, have a dental check-up every 6 months

• Taking certain medicines: Speak to a pharmacist for advice – do not stop taking prescribed medicine without medical advice

• Chemotherapy or radiotherapy: Eat stronger-tasting food like ginger and spices, and suck on boiled sweets
• Colds and other problems with your airways: The taste should go away once the problem has cleared up
• Indigestion: The taste should go away after treating indigestion
• Being pregnant: The taste is usually temporary and clears up by itself

It concludes by noting you should book an appointment with your GP if you have a metallic taste that does not go away. You should also seek help if the metallic taste has no apparent cause.