General Information on Metrogel
Metrogel is prescribed for the treatment of a specific type of adult acne (rosacea). It is used to reduce swelling, redness, and pimple formation caused due to rosacea.
Metronidazole, the main active ingredient in the medication, is an antibiotic. It works by reducing inflammation. The drug penetrates the bacterial cells and interferes with DNA and damages it. Metronidazole also prevents the bacterial cells from forming new DNA, which leads to the death of bacterial cells.
Metrogel is available in the form of a topical gel. The concentration of Metronidazole in Metrogel is 7.5%. It is a prescription medication, which means you should not buy Metrogel and use it without consulting your doctor.
Side effects of Metrogel
Nausea, skin irritation, metallic taste in the mouth, headache, stinging, dryness, redness, and burning are some less serious side effects associated with the use of Metrogel. These side effects generally wane over time as your body gets used to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, you should consult your doctor immediately.
Metrogel may also cause severe side effects or allergic reactions in some people. Numbness or tingling sensation in the feet or hands are some severe side effects associated with the drug. In rare cases, the drug may cause allergic reactions such as severe dizziness, rashes, trouble breathing, swelling of the throat, face, or tongue, or itching. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice or experience severe side effects or allergic reactions after applying Metrogel.
It is not necessary that every person using this topical gel will experience some side effect. Many people using Metrogel do not complain about any side effects. You should remember that your doctor has recommended this medication for your treatment because he/she is of the opinion that the benefits of the drug are far greater than its side effects.
Dosage of Metrogel
Your doctor will give you specific instructions regarding the use of the medication. The topical gel should be applied only to the skin. Wash your hands before and after using Metrogel.
Wash the area where the medication will be applied. Pat it dry and wait for at least 15 minutes before applying Metrogel. Smear a thin film or coat over the affected area. Wait for 5 minutes before using cosmetics on the skin (where the medication is applied).
Do not apply Metrogel around the eyes unless deemed safe by your doctor. Apply Metrogel at the same time every day to get the best results from the treatment. Do not stop using the medication if you don’t see any improvement as it may take around 3 weeks before you see any improvement in your condition.
Interactions
If you are using two drugs, than there is a possibility of drug interactions, which may cause side effects. Metrogel is to be applied only on the skin and a very tiny percent of the medication is absorbed in the bloodstream. Therefore, there is a negligible chance that it may interact with other oral drugs you are using.
To reduce the risk of side effects, inform your doctor about every drug you are taking before you buy Metrogel, including prescription drugs (especially blood thinners such as Warfarin), over the counter medicines, and herbal supplements.