Mirvaso Gel is a prescription medication specifically designed to treat facial redness caused by rosacea in adults over 18. The active ingredient, brimonidine, belongs to a class of medicines known as alpha agonists, which work by narrowing the blood vessels in the skin to reduce blood flow and redness. Applied topically once a day, Mirvaso Gel quickly alleviates redness, with effects typically visible within 30 minutes and lasting up to 12 hours. Manufactured by Galderma, this gel is easy to use and can be incorporated into a daily skincare routine alongside other rosacea treatments. While effective, Mirvaso Gel may cause mild side effects such as itching, redness, or a burning sensation. As with any medication, it is important to follow the prescribed usage and consult with a healthcare provider regarding any concerns or potential interactions with other medications.
Dr Sarah Thornton MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction
GP, Medical coach
What is Mirvaso gel?
Mirvaso contains the active substance brimonidine, which belongs to a group of medicines known as “alpha agonists.” It is used topically on the facial skin to treat redness caused by rosacea in adult patients. The redness associated with rosacea is due to increased blood flow in the facial skin, resulting from the dilation of small blood vessels. When applied, Mirvaso works by narrowing these blood vessels, thereby reducing excess blood flow and redness.
What is the active ingredient in Mirvaso gel?
Mirvaso rosacea gel contains the active ingredient: brimonidine tartrate 0.33%.
What is Mirvaso gel used for?
Mirvaso gel is a prescription-only treatment for rosacea, suitable for adults over the age of 18. For this treatment to be effective, it must be applied daily to the affected areas. Manufactured by Galderma, Mirvaso gel comes in a 30g tube.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent episodes of facial flushing, redness, and spots. The areas of the face commonly affected include the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Rosacea occurs when blood flow to the facial skin increases due to the dilation of small blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow through.
There’s no set cure for rosacea; treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Those with more severe symptoms may be prescribed an oral antibiotic to reduce inflammation. Common antibiotics used to treat rosacea include tetracycline, oxytetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin.
Triggers that Can Worsen Rosacea Symptoms
Direct sunlight
Wearing too much makeup
Harsh skincare products
Emotional stress
Alcohol
Spicy foods
Hot baths
Extreme weather
Caffeine withdrawal
How does Mirvaso gel work?
The active ingredient, brimonidine, is an alpha agonist. These medicines work by stimulating the alpha receptors in the muscle walls of blood vessels. When applied topically to areas of reddened skin, brimonidine causes the blood vessels to contract. This contraction reduces the flow of blood through the vessels, resulting in a decrease in redness.
How do you use Mirvaso gel?
For use by adults over the age of 18 years:
Apply Mirvaso topical gel once daily at any time of day, as long as facial erythema (redness) is present.
Use a pea-sized amount for each area: forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks.
Spread a thin, even layer across the entire area, avoiding the eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth, and inner nose membranes. Mirvaso should only be applied to the face.
Wash your hands immediately after application.
The maximum recommended daily dose is 1g in total (five pea-sized applications).
Mirvaso can be used alongside other rosacea creams. It can also be used with makeup and cosmetics, but these should only be applied after Mirvaso has been absorbed into the skin.
Who should not use Mirvaso gel?
Mirvaso gel is a prescription medication for rosacea. Always ensure you read the Patient Information Leaflet enclosed with Mirvaso before using the gel. You will need a prescription to buy Mirvaso gel online.
Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
Not to be used in individuals under 18 years old.
Do not use if you are allergic to any of the listed ingredients.
Do not apply to closed eyes.
Mirvaso has not been studied in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
Mirvaso should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Mirvaso is not suitable for use if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
The skin of your face is irritated or has open wounds.
You have problems with your heart or circulation.
You have depression, decreased blood flow to the brain or heart, a fall in blood pressure on standing up, decreased blood flow to the hands, feet, or skin, or Sjögren’s syndrome.
You have kidney or liver problems or have had them in the past.
Mirvaso gel, pregnancy, and breastfeeding:
You should not use this gel if you think you might be or are currently pregnant. You also should not use this gel if you are breastfeeding.
What are the side effects of Mirvaso gel?
Like all medicines, Mirvaso can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:
Redness
Itching
Flushing
Skin burning sensation
These side effects are typically mild to moderate in severity and usually do not require discontinuation of Mirvaso. They can feel like a worsening of your initial symptoms, and it is impossible to predict if you will experience them before trying Mirvaso. For this reason, it is recommended to start with just one tube and apply the gel to a small area of the face initially.
Less common side effects include:
Acne
Dry mouth
Cold hands and feet
Feeling hot
Headache
Nasal congestion
Skin rash, pain, or inflammation
Dry skin
Warm tingling sensation
Swelling of the eyelids or face
Urticaria (itching)
Worsening of rosacea
Does Mirvaso gel interact with other medicines?
Mirvaso and other medicines: Mirvaso is not suitable if you take any of the following:
Medicines used for depression or Parkinson’s disease, including monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
Tricyclic antidepressants (such as imipramine) or tetracyclic antidepressants (such as maprotiline, mianserin, or mirtazapine).
Medicines used for the treatment of pain, sleep disorders, or anxiety disorders.
Medicines used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders (chlorpromazine), hyperactivity (methylphenidate), or high blood pressure (reserpine).
Medicines that act on the same body mechanism as Mirvaso (other alpha agonists).
Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin) used to treat heart problems.
Blood pressure-lowering medicines such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers (e.g., propranolol, amlodipine).
Mirvaso gel FAQs
What is Mirvaso Gel used for?
Mirvaso Gel is used to reduce facial redness caused by rosacea in adults over the age of 18. It contains the active ingredient brimonidine, which reduces redness by decreasing blood flow to the skin.
How does Mirvaso Gel work?
The active ingredient, brimonidine, is an alpha agonist. It works by stimulating alpha receptors in the muscle walls of blood vessels, causing them to contract. This reduces blood flow to the skin and decreases redness.
How should I apply Mirvaso Gel?
Apply a pea-sized amount of Mirvaso Gel to each of the five areas of your face (forehead, nose, chin, and each cheek). Spread a thin layer evenly across the affected areas once daily. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and the inside of the nose.
How long does it take to see results with Mirvaso Gel?
You may notice a reduction in redness within 30 minutes of application. The effects typically last for up to 12 hours. Regular daily use is recommended for continued control of rosacea symptoms.
Can I use makeup or other skincare products with Mirvaso Gel?
Yes, you can use makeup and other skincare products. Apply Mirvaso Gel first, wait until it is fully absorbed (usually a few minutes), and then apply other products.
Are there any side effects of using Mirvaso Gel?
Common side effects include redness, itching, flushing, and a burning sensation. These are usually mild to moderate. Less common side effects include acne, dry mouth, cold hands and feet, feeling hot, headache, nasal congestion, and worsening of rosacea.
Who should not use Mirvaso Gel?
Do not use Mirvaso Gel if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. It is also not suitable for children under 18 years, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with certain medical conditions like severe heart disease or vascular disorders.
Can Mirvaso Gel interact with other medications?
Yes, Mirvaso Gel can interact with certain medications, including those used for depression, heart conditions, and other alpha agonists. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting Mirvaso.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Mirvaso Gel?
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for the missed one.
How should I store Mirvaso Gel?
Store Mirvaso Gel at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and do not use it after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
