MetroGel

Metronidazole is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.

Metronidazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosacea.

Metronidazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use metronidazole topical if you are allergic to it.

To make sure metronidazole topical is safe for you, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies.

Metronidazole topical is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether metronidazole topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Use this medicine exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Wash and gently dry your skin before applying metronidazole topical

Apply the medication in a thin layer and rub in completely. You may apply cosmetics after using metronidazole topical.

Do not use metronidazole topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using metronidazole topical.

Store metronidazole topical at room temperature away from moisture or heat.

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

An overdose of metronidazole applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

Do not take by mouth. Metronidazole topical is for use only on the skin. If this medication gets in your eyes, rinse with water.

Do not use topical metronidazole in the vagina.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe stinging or burning when you apply metronidazole topical.

Common side effects may include:

• mild burning or stinging;
• numbness or tingly feeling in your hands or feet;
• mild skin redness or irritation;
• dry, scaly, or itchy skin;
• nausea; or
• metallic taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied metronidazole. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Your pharmacist can provide more information about metronidazole topical.