Which of the following antibiotics is most commonly associated with causing a metallic taste sensation in the oral cavity?

A Clindamycin

B Metronidazole

C Amoxicillin

D Erythromycin

Solution

Correct Answer: Option B

The antibiotic most commonly associated with causing a metallic taste sensation in the oral cavity is Metronidazole.

- Metronidazole is known to cause several distinctive side effects, one of which is a metallic or bitter taste that patients often report during the course of treatment.
- This adverse effect occurs because Metronidazole interacts with the taste receptors or alters the normal flora in the oral cavity, leading to changes in taste perception.

- In contrast, other antibiotics such as Clindamycin, Amoxicillin, and Erythromycin are less frequently associated with taste disturbances.
- While these antibiotics can cause other side effects like gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, a metallic taste is not a common complaint.

Key Points:
- Metronidazole is the antibiotic most frequently linked to a metallic taste sensation.
- The metallic taste is a known and documented side effect during its use.
- Other antibiotics in the list do not typically cause this taste disturbance.

Understanding the side effect profile of antibiotics is essential for patient counseling and managing expectations during treatment.

Reference: Goodman & Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, Volume 2, Chapter 43, Page 1122

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