Metrogel

Metrogel is an anti-inflammatory gel for use on the skin. The active ingredient metronidazole is an antibiotic that counteracts bacteria that cause skin problems. In this way, pimples and reddening of the skin, which can occur, for example, as a result of rosacea or skin infections, are alleviated.

The active Metrogel ingredient, Metronidazole, is an antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent active against a large number of pathogenic microorganisms. The mechanism of action of metronidazole in the treatment of acne rosacea is unknown, but there is evidence to suggest that it could be due to its antibacterial and/or anti-inflammatory properties.

Metrogel is a gel antibiotic that is used to treat Rosacea. It is only sold by prescription. The active substance is metronidazole, which is a substance that is also used in tablets to treat other bacterial infections. The gel is used twice a day for a specified period, to reduce symptoms.

Among other things, Metrogel is prescribed for rosacea, a disease of the facial skin that is associated with the following symptoms:

• Red spots, predominantly on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and tip of the nose;
• Pimples, pustules and skin imperfections;
• Visibly protruding blood vessels.

Metrogel soothes the skin so that symptoms such as red spots and blemishes disappear within a few weeks.

Follow exactly the Metrogel administration instructions indicated by your doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have doubts.

For the recommended Metrogel dosage, apply the gel to the affected areas twice a day, in the morning and at night before going to bed.

• Before applying the gel, clean the affected area with a mild cleanser and dry the affected area
• Apply a thin layer of gel
• Massage lightly

After the application, you should wash your hands carefully.

You can use non-comedogenic (grain-producing) and non-astringent (non-drying) cosmetics after Metrogel Gel application.

Use in children

Do not use in children. There is no experience in the use of this medicine in children.

This medicine should not be ingested. IT IS FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY.

If you stop taking Metrogel

Your doctor will indicate the duration of your Metrogel treatment. Do not stop the treatment sooner as the desired effect will not be achieved.

Like all medicines, this skin disorder treatment medication can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. This medication may occasionally cause unwanted side effects at the application site such as:

Common Metrogel side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)

• Dry Skin
• Erythema (redness of the skin)
• Pruritus (itchy skin)
• Skin discomfort (burning, pain/stinging)
• Skin irritation
• Worsening of rosacea (disease of the central part of the face consisting of redness and itching of the cheeks and chin)

Rare Metrogel side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 patients)

• Hypoaesthesia (decreased sensitivity)
• Paresthesia (impaired sensitivity)
• Dysgeusia (alteration of taste to metallic taste)
• Sickness
• Adverse effects of Unknown frequency (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data)
• Contact dermatitis (eczema from contact with the gel)

Warnings and precautions

Contact with the eyes and mucous membranes should be avoided. Some cases of ocular tearing have been described in relation to the use of topical metronidazole, therefore the products should not be contacted with the eyes.

In the event of local irritation, the frequency of application should be reduced or treatment should be temporarily or permanently discontinued, according to clinical criteria.

Cosmetics can be used after the application of Metrogel.

Metronidazole belongs to the chemical family of nitroimidazoles, so it should be used with caution in those patients who suffer or have a history of blood dyscrasias.

Exposure to UV radiation (sunbaths, solarium, sunlamps) should be avoided during treatment with metronidazole.

Unnecessary and prolonged use of this medicine should be avoided. Evidence suggests that metronidazole is carcinogenic in certain animal species. There is no evidence of data on the carcinogenic effect in humans.

Methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E-218) may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed). Metrogel can cause skin irritation because it contains propylene glycol.

Interactions

Interactions with other drugs are less likely with topical administration of metronidazole, but its co-prescription with anticoagulants should be considered. Oral administration of metronidazole has been reported to interact with disulfiram, alcohol (Antabuse effect) and may potentiate the anticoagulant effect of Coumarin and Warfarin, resulting in prolonged prothrombin time. The effect of topical metronidazole on prothrombin is unknown.