Metronidazole Topical

• This medication is used on the skin to treat a certain skin disorder known as rosacea, a type of adult acne. It may help to decrease redness, swelling and the number of pimples caused by rosacea.
• This medication is an antibiotic. For the treatment of rosacea, Metronidazole is believed to work by decreasing swelling (inflammation). 
• Some brands of this medication also contain sunscreens.

• Use this medication on the skin only. Wash and dry your hands before and after applying this medication. Wash and dry the area to be treated. Wait 15 minutes, then apply a thin layer of medication usually once or twice daily, or as directed by your medical provider. Wait 5 minutes before applying cosmetics.
• Avoid using this medication around the eye area, unless directed by your medical provider. Watery or tearing eyes may occur if this medication is applied too close to the eyes. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this occurs, rinse your eyes with large amounts of cool water.
• Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day.
• It may take about three weeks before you see any improvement, and up to nine weeks for full benefit. If there’s no improvement after three weeks, consult your medical provider.

• Stinging, burning, skin irritation, dryness, redness, metallic taste, nausea or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your medical provider or pharmacist promptly.
• Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
• Tell your medical provider right away if you have any serious side effects, including tingling or numbness of the hands and feet.

• A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling, especially of the face/tongue/throat
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

• This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

• Before using Metronidazole, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; other nitroimidazole antibiotics (such as Tinidazole); other ingredients in this product or if you have any other allergies. 
• This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Go to your patient dashboard and request a medical provider callback if you have any questions.
• Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history, especially of blood disorders (blood dyscrasias).
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when there is a clear need. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical provider.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your medical provider before breastfeeding.

• Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.
• Keep a list of all the products you use—including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products—and share it with your medical provider and pharmacist. 
• Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.

• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms—such as passing out or trouble breathing—call 911. 
• If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
• This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

• Do not share this medication with others.
• This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless told to do so by your medical provider. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.
• Sun exposure can worsen rosacea. Limit exposure to the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using a sunscreen that is SPF 15 or greater. If your brand already contains a sunscreen, you should use a regular sunscreen (without the Metronidazole) on areas of skin not treated with this medication.
• Avoid certain triggers that may worsen rosacea such as wind, hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol and extreme cold. Discuss with your medical provider.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Keep all medications away from children and pets.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more information.