Generic name: metronidazole topical [ MET-roe-NYE-da-zole ]
Brand names: MetroCream, MetroGel, MetroGel Pump, MetroLotion, Noritate, Rosadan
Dosage forms: topical cream (0.75%; 1%), topical gel (0.75%; 1%), topical kit (0.75% with cleanser), ... show all 4 dosage forms topical lotion (0.75%)
Drug classes: Topical anti-rosacea agents, Vaginal anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 9, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is metronidazole topical?

Metronidazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosacea.

Metronidazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Metronidazole topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Metronidazole topical may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands or feet; or

• stinging or burning when you apply metronidazole topical.

Common side effects of metronidazole topical may include:

• burning or stinging;

• skin redness or irritation;

• dry, scaly, or itchy skin; or

• cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

doxycycline, metronidazole, clindamycin topical, clindamycin, ivermectin topical, minocycline topical, brimonidine topical

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use metronidazole topical if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a nervous system disorder.

It is not known whether metronidazole topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using metronidazole topical.

Metronidazole topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I use metronidazole topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash and gently dry your skin before applying metronidazole topical

Apply the medication in a thin layer and rub in completely. You may apply cosmetics after using metronidazole topical.

Do not use metronidazole topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using metronidazole topical.

Store at room temperature away from moisture or heat.

Metronidazole topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Acne Rosacea:

1% Topical Cream or Gel: Apply and rub in a thin film to entire affected area(s) once a day

0.75% Topical Cream, Gel, or Lotion: Apply and rub in a thin layer to entire affected area(s) twice a day (morning and evening)

Comments:
-Areas to be treated should be washed with a mild/gentle cleanser prior to application of this drug.
-Patients may use cosmetics after application of this drug.
---Topical lotion formulation: Patients should wait until dry (at least 5 minutes) to use cosmetics.

Uses:
-For 0.75% topical cream, gel, or lotion: For the topical treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea
-For 1% topical cream: For the topical treatment of inflammatory lesions and erythema of rosacea
-For 1% topical gel: For the topical treatment of inflammatory lesions of rosacea

Usual Adult Dose for Bacterial Vaginosis:

1.3% Vaginal Gel: Insert 1 applicatorful intravaginally once at bedtime.

0.75% Vaginal Gel: Insert 1 applicatorful intravaginally once a day (at bedtime) or twice a day for 5 days.
-Vandazole: Insert 1 applicatorful intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 5 days.

Use: For the treatment of bacterial vaginosis
-Vandazole: In nonpregnant women

Usual Pediatric Dose for Bacterial Vaginosis:

1.3% Vaginal Gel:
-Females 12 years or older: Insert 1 applicatorful intravaginally once at bedtime.

Vandazole (0.75% Vaginal Gel):
-Postmenarchal females: Insert 1 applicatorful intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 5 days.

Use: For the treatment of bacterial vaginosis
-Vandazole: In nonpregnant women

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of metronidazole topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while using metronidazole topical?

Do not use metronidazole topical in the vagina.

Avoid getting metronidazole topical in your eyes.

What other drugs will affect metronidazole topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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