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Metronidazole (topical)

  • Apply twice a day unless you have been told otherwise.
  • Keep out of strong sunlight and do not use sun beds while you are using topical metronidazole.

About topical metronidazole

Type of medicineAntibacterial
Used forRosacea
Infected skin ulcers and other wounds
Also calledAcea®, Anabact®, Metrosa®, Metrogel®, Rosiced®, Rozex®, Zyomet®
Available asCream, gel

Metronidazole is used to treat bacterial infections. When used topically (which means that it is applied to the skin) it is used to treat infections of the skin such as rosacea (sometimes referred to as acne rosacea). It works by killing the bacteria responsible for the infection.

Metronidazole may also be used topically to reduce the odour from infected wounds such as skin ulcers.

Before using topical metronidazole

Before using topical metronidazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How use topical metronidazole

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Use this preparation exactly as your doctor has told you to.
  • If you have been given this preparation for rosacea, apply a thin layer to the affected area of the face twice daily. It is usually applied for a period of 6 weeks to 4 months. Your doctor will tell you how long to use it for.
  • If you have been given this preparation for a skin ulcer or wound, it is to be applied to the wound once or twice daily after it has been cleaned. Usually, your doctor will arrange for this to be done for you.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep any regular doctor's appointments so that your progress can be monitored.
  • Avoid exposure to strong sunlight and do not use sun beds while you are being treated with topical metronidazole.
  • If your condition does not improve or if it gets worse, let your doctor know.

Can topical metronidazole cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effect - this affects less than 1 in 10 people who use this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Skin irritationApply less of the preparation or use it less often until the irritation has settled

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store topical metronidazole

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Metrogel®, Galderma, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised March 2006, accessed 3 September 2008.
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Rozex® Cream, Galderma, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2006, accessed 3 September 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
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dils3853		Last Reviewed:
27 Oct 2008		Version:
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