Rhodogil in Spain: What It Treats and Why to Avoid Alcohol
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, MD
Licensed Physician No. 484814280 · Official Medical College of Bizkaia (Spain)Last reviewed: 5 November 2026
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Rhodogil is a Spanish prescription antibiotic that combines spiramycin and metronidazole. It treats infections of the teeth and gums, such as a dental abscess, and some throat, ear and sinus infections. This guide is by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, an English-speaking GP licensed in Spain (Colegiado No. 484814280) who sees patients by video in English and Spanish.
- Rhodogil tablets contain two antibiotics: spiramycin and metronidazole.
- It is mainly used for tooth and gum infections, and after mouth surgery.
- It needs a prescription. An antibiotic does not replace a dentist.
- No alcohol while you take it, or for at least one day after.
- Not for people with liver problems or who are breastfeeding. In pregnancy, only if a doctor decides.
What is Rhodogil?
Rhodogil is a tablet made by ROVI. Each one holds two antibiotics that work together:
- spiramycin, from the same family as azithromycin;
- metronidazole, which works well against bacteria that live without oxygen, as they do in the gums and under the teeth.
What is Rhodogil used for?
The Spanish product information lists these uses:
- infections of the mouth and teeth, such as a dental abscess or gum disease (periodontitis);
- throat infections caused by bacteria that live without oxygen;
- ear infections and sinusitis;
- to prevent infection after mouth or dental surgery.
It does not help colds, flu or most sore throats, which are caused by viruses.
Does Rhodogil help toothache?
Only if there is a bacterial infection, such as an abscess. It is not a painkiller, so it will not ease pain from tooth decay or a sensitive tooth. A dentist needs to treat the tooth, drain the abscess or do a root canal. The antibiotic helps, but it does not replace that care.
Do you need a prescription for Rhodogil in Spain?
Yes. Like all antibiotics in Spain, it is sold only with a prescription from a doctor or dentist. The dose and how long you take it are set by the person who prescribes it; ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Rhodogil?
No. Metronidazole reacts with alcohol. It can cause a red, hot face, stomach cramps, vomiting and a racing heart. Avoid drinks and products that contain alcohol while you take it, and for at least one day after the last tablet. Do not take it if you have taken disulfiram (a medicine for alcohol problems) in the last two weeks.
Who should not take Rhodogil?
Do not take Rhodogil if you:
- are allergic to spiramycin, metronidazole or similar medicines (imidazoles);
- have liver disease or your liver does not work well;
- have hereditary fructose intolerance, as it contains sorbitol;
- are breastfeeding, as both antibiotics pass into breast milk.
Check with your doctor first if
- you take a blood thinner such as warfarin or acenocoumarol (Sintrom), as the risk of bleeding goes up;
- you take lithium, busulfan, phenytoin, ciclosporin or medicines that affect the heart rhythm;
- you have a disease of the nervous system, or have had blood problems;
- you have Cockayne syndrome, because of a risk of serious liver damage.
Can I take Rhodogil when pregnant?
Only if your doctor decides it is right for you. Its safety in pregnancy has not been studied, and both antibiotics cross the placenta. If you are pregnant or think you may be, do not take it without asking first.
Can children take Rhodogil?
The doctor decides. The leaflet says the tablets are not a suitable form for children aged 5 to 10. For a child, the dose is always set by the doctor.
What are the side effects?
The most common are feeling sick, vomiting, diarrhoea, a change in taste or a metal taste, and a skin rash. You may feel tingling in your hands or feet. Your urine may turn reddish brown; this is harmless. Stop it and get advice if you feel dizzy, unsteady or confused, or get blisters, severe diarrhoea or mood changes. Do not drive if you feel confused, dizzy or tired.
In English: what is the equivalent?
This two-in-one tablet is not sold in the UK or the US. In France the same mix is sold as Rodogyl. In the UK and the US, dentists and doctors often use metronidazole on its own, or another antibiotic such as amoxicillin. Spanish pharmacies ask for a prescription from a doctor or dentist licensed in Spain, so a UK or US prescription is normally refused.
When to call 112
- Swelling in your face or neck grows fast, or you struggle to swallow, open your mouth or breathe.
- Swollen lips or tongue, or hives and shortness of breath.
- A fit (seizure) or sudden, severe confusion.
Frequently asked questions about Rhodogil
Is Rhodogil a strong antibiotic?
It is a mix of two antibiotics aimed at the bacteria found in the mouth. It is not better or worse than others: the doctor or dentist picks the right one for each infection.
How often do I take Rhodogil?
The dose and timing are set by the person who prescribes it and explained in the leaflet. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.
Can I take Rhodogil if I am allergic to penicillin?
Rhodogil does not contain penicillin. Still, always tell the doctor about all your allergies before you are given an antibiotic.
Can an online doctor prescribe Rhodogil in Spain?
A GP licensed in Spain may, after a video assessment, if it is clinically appropriate. A tooth infection also needs a dentist. A prescription is never guaranteed.
Getting a medical assessment
If you have a mouth, ear or sinus infection and want advice, you can book a video consultation with Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, a physician registered in Spain. You can also read about sinus infections, antibiotics for toothache and antibiotics and alcohol. A prescription is never guaranteed: it is issued only where clinically appropriate after a genuine evaluation, as a private electronic prescription under Spanish law. This service is for urgent, non-emergency care. In an emergency, call 112.
This guide is general information. It does not replace the package leaflet or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
Sources
This content is written and reviewed by a licensed physician with reference to the following sources.
