Final answer:
A pharmacist would advise a new patient who is picking up a prescription for metronidazole to take the medication as prescribed, complete the full course, and avoid alcohol.
Step-by-step explanation:
A pharmacist would advise a new patient who is picking up a prescription for metronidazole to take the medication exactly as prescribed by their healthcare provider. Metronidazole is commonly used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria and parasites. It is important to finish the full course of the medication, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.
It is also important to avoid consuming alcohol while taking metronidazole, as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting. The pharmacist may also remind the patient to discuss any other medications or medical conditions they have with their healthcare provider before starting metronidazole, as it may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.