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Metronidazole topical

Generic name: metronidazole topical

Brand names: MetroCream, MetroGel, MetroLotion, Noritate, Rosadan

Used for rosacea
Last updated November 2, 2026 0 views
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What is metronidazole topical?

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

Metronidazole topical may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

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 only for use on the skin.

Wash and gently dry your skin before applying metronidazole topical.

Apply the medication in a thin layer and rub it 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 an 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.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Warnings

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you take.

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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.

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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 right away 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.

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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 day0.75% 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 nearly time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at once.

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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.

Do not use metronidazole topical in the vagina.

Avoid getting metronidazole topical in your eyes.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect metronidazole topical?

Medicine applied to the skin is not likely to be influenced by other medications you take. However, many drugs can interact with one another. Inform all of your healthcare providers about all the medicines you are using, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.