What is Metrogel?
Metrogel is a prescription-only topical treatment primarily used to manage rosacea. It contains the active ingredient metronidazole, an antibiotic that helps reduce inflammation, redness, and spots associated with this skin condition. Metrogel is intended for adults over 18 and comes in 40g tubes manufactured by Galderma.
What is Metrogel used for?
Metrogel is used to treat rosacea, a chronic skin condition that causes redness, spots, and pimples, particularly on the face, including the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and eyelids. Symptoms of rosacea can include dry skin, swelling, redness, visible blood vessels, and pus-filled pimples. Metrogel helps alleviate these symptoms and clear up skin irritation and inflammation. It is not suitable for treating acne or other skin conditions.
How does Metrogel treat rosacea?
Metrogel contains metronidazole, a powerful antibiotic that targets the bacteria responsible for rosacea. When applied to the skin, metronidazole works by damaging the DNA of these bacteria, preventing them from multiplying. This helps control the infection and reduces the inflammation and redness associated with rosacea. Additionally, Metrogel helps clear up spots and pimples caused by the condition.
Can Metrogel be used for bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Although Metrogel contains metronidazole, the same antibiotic used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), it is not recommended for treating infections of the genitals. For BV, other treatments like Zidoval vaginal gel or metronidazole tablets are available and can be obtained through a healthcare provider.
What are the alternatives to Metrogel?
If you are looking for alternatives to Metrogel, there are several options. These may include other metronidazole-based gels, such as Rozex, or treatments containing different active ingredients like Finacea, Dermalex, or Soolantra. These treatments come in various forms, including creams, gels, and oral medications. It is best to consult with a doctor or pharmacist to determine which treatment is most suitable for your rosacea.
How do I apply Metrogel?
To use Metrogel, follow these steps:
- Wash and dry the affected areas of your skin.
- Apply a thin layer of gel to all affected areas, avoiding contact with your eyes.
- Rub the gel in well.
- Replace the cap and wash your hands after use.
Metrogel should be applied twice a day, in the morning and evening, or as directed by your doctor. Continue using the gel for the prescribed duration to manage your rosacea effectively.
What are the ingredients in Metrogel?
Metrogel contains 0.75% metronidazole as the active ingredient, with each gram of gel containing 7.5mg of metronidazole. It also includes inactive ingredients such as phosphoric acid, hydroxybenzoic acid esters, bronopol, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and propylene glycol.
What are the potential side effects of Metrogel?
While not everyone experiences side effects, some common ones include:
- Skin irritation
- Dry, itchy skin
- Reddening of the skin
- Burning, pain, or stinging sensation
- Worsening of rosacea
If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor or pharmacist. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, including symptoms like swelling, difficulty breathing, or a rash. If you experience any severe allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
Can I use Metrogel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Metrogel. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of treatment for your rosacea during this time.
Can I drink alcohol with Metrogel?
While it is generally safe to use Metrogel while consuming alcohol, caution is still advised. Unlike oral metronidazole, which can cause a severe reaction when taken with alcohol, Metrogel is a topical treatment applied to the skin, and it is absorbed into the bloodstream in very small amounts. This makes it unlikely to interact with alcohol in the same way.
However, since alcohol can sometimes exacerbate rosacea symptoms, such as redness and flushing, it might be wise to limit alcohol consumption while treating rosacea with Metrogel. If you have concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, consult your doctor for personalized advice.
