What is metronidazole gel used for?

Metronidazole 1% gel is FDA-approved to treat the inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adults, including the red bumps (papules) and pimples (pustules) the condition causes. It is applied to the skin and is not used for acne or bacterial skin infections.

Do I need a prescription for metronidazole gel?

Yes. Metronidazole 1% gel is a prescription-only medication in the United States. A licensed healthcare provider must review your health information and issue a prescription before it can be dispensed.

How do I order metronidazole gel and how does shipping work?

After you complete a brief health questionnaire, a licensed provider reviews your information to determine whether the medication is appropriate for you. If prescribed, your order is filled and shipped directly from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.

How long does metronidazole gel take to work for rosacea?

Many people begin to see improvement in rosacea lesions within about 3 weeks, though it can take longer. Your prescriber may reassess your response after several weeks of consistent daily use.

How do I apply metronidazole 1% gel?

Wash and dry the affected areas, then apply a thin layer once daily as directed by your prescriber. Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, and the inside of your nose, and wash your hands after applying.

Is topical metronidazole the same as the metronidazole pill?

No. The oral tablet treats certain bacterial and parasitic infections throughout the body, while the 1% gel is a topical formulation applied to the skin for rosacea. They are not interchangeable, so use only the form your provider prescribed.

Can I use metronidazole gel with other skin products?

Ask your prescriber or pharmacist before combining it with other topical treatments, as some products may increase irritation. Non-medicated moisturizers and sunscreen can generally be used, applied after the gel has dried.

Metronidazole 1% Gel

Name: Metronidazole 1% Gel
Brand: All Family Pharmacy
SKU: metronidazole-1-gel
Availability: InStock

Generic For: MetroGel

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Metronidazole 1% Gel — All Family Pharmacy

Metronidazole 1% gel (brand name MetroGel) is a prescription topical antibiotic used to treat the inflammatory lesions — bumps and pimples — of rosacea in adults. Applied once daily, it helps reduce the papules and pustules associated with this common skin condition. After a licensed provider reviews your information, your order ships from a licensed U.S. pharmacy.

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Buy Metronidazole 1% Gel (MetroGel) Online

A topical nitroimidazole antibiotic gel used to treat the inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea

Medically reviewed by David Paul Mackarey, RPh, Pharmacist-in-Charge

Metronidazole 1% Gel Quick Facts

Drug class	Topical nitroimidazole antibiotic
Treats	Rosacea, inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea
Form	Gel
Typical dosing	Apply a thin layer to affected areas of face once daily. Rub in gently. Avoid eyes and mouth.
Prescription required	Yes — prescription only

What Is Metronidazole 1% Gel?

Metronidazole 1% gel is a prescription topical medication in the nitroimidazole class, sold under the brand name MetroGel. It is applied to the skin to treat the inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) of rosacea in adults. While the exact way metronidazole works in rosacea is not fully understood, it is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. It is for external use only and is typically applied once daily to the affected areas.

What Does Metronidazole 1% Gel Treat?

Inflammatory lesions of rosacea in adults
Papules (red bumps) associated with rosacea
Pustules (pus-filled pimples) associated with rosacea
Maintenance of rosacea improvement as directed by a provider

Metronidazole 1% Gel Dosage

Apply a thin layer topically to affected area(s) once daily.
Cleanse and dry skin before application.
Continue as directed by your prescriber; results are typically assessed after several weeks.

Your prescriber will determine the dose and duration that are right for you. Always follow the directions on your prescription label.

Metronidazole 1% Gel Side Effects

Common side effects

Application-site dryness
Skin redness
Stinging or burning at application site
Itching (pruritus)
Skin irritation
Worsening of rosacea symptoms
Nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms)

Serious side effects

Stop taking this medication and seek medical attention right away if you experience:

Allergic reaction (rash, hives, swelling of face or throat)
Severe skin irritation requiring discontinuation
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet (peripheral neuropathy)
Eye irritation or watery eyes from contact with eyes
Contact dermatitis

Warnings & Interactions

Do not use if allergic to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles
For external use only; avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes
Use caution with blood thinners (warfarin) — topical absorption may enhance anticoagulant effect
Use caution in patients with a history of blood dyscrasias
Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole; consider this if signs of systemic effects occur
Discontinue and contact a provider if severe irritation develops
Tell your provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before use

Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting metronidazole 1% gel.