METROGEL (METRONIDAZOLE)

Metrogel Description

Metrogel is a topical antibiotic preparation that may be prescribed to treat rosacea. It is available with a prescription as Metrogel or by its generic name Metronidazole. Metrogel should only be applied topically as directed. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Soothe Inflammation and Enjoy Clearer Skin

When applied as instructed, Metrogel works by calming down inflammation and swelling that rosacea can cause, as well as reduce pimples. By doing so, the ruddy complexion and acne that can occur with rosacea fades with time and applying Metrogel faithfully for a few months at least. This is not a cure for rosacea and you may not see any benefits of Metrogel for a couple of months.

Conditions Treated by Metrogel

Metrogel may be prescribed to treat rosacea, a harmless, but chronic skin condition that can make your face turn red and may also cause swelling and skin sores that will look like acne. Rosacea seems to affect more women than men, and though it can occur at any age, it occurs more often between the ages of 30 to 50. It is not fully understood how Metrogel helps in rosacea because no specific bacteria have been found to cause the condition. However, it is thought to work by controlling infection and reducing inflammation in the skin.

Rosacea can be mild with symptoms of blushing or flushing easily or redness of the face. Other symptoms include: spider-like blood vessels of the face; red nose; acne-like skin sores that may ooze; burning or stinging feeling; and irritated, bloodshot, watery eyes. There is no cure at this time for rosacea, but with a prescription from your doctor, you can treat the symptoms. Without treatment, rosacea tends to be progressive, with a majority of people having the symptoms come and go through out their lifetime.

Metrogel may also be prescribed to treat conditions other than rosacea. Metronidazole kills a wide variety of bacteria that are known collectively as anaerobic bacteria. This type of bacteria does not need oxygen to grow and multiply. They can infect skin wounds and ulcers and produce an offensive odor. Metronidazole is applied to malodorous fungating tumors to kill these bacteria and reduce the associated smell.

Before Metrogel is Prescribed

Before using Metrogel, be sure to advise your doctor if you have a history of: liver disease; nerve disorders; blood disorders; stomach or intestinal disease; stomach or intestinal disease. Metrogel is not recommended for use in children. Ask your doctor if there are risks to using Metrogel while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding.

Metrogel Precautions

There may be an undesirable reaction between Metrogel and alcohol, Warfarin, Clotrimazole or other topical skin medications. Metrogel should only be used when clearly needed during pregnancy; be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of Metrogel with your doctor. Metrogel or Metronidazole generic may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Avoid strong sunlight and tanning beds, and use a sun cream with a high sun protection factor (SPF).

Possible Side Effects of Metrogel

• Mild burning or stinging
• Metallic taste in mouth
• Dry, scaly or itchy skin
• Headache