Oxymetazoline

Oxymetazoline Oxymetazoline cream is a daily topical used to treat rosacea by narrowing the blood vessels in the skin, which can reduce facial redness. Read more about rosacea.
Start rosacea Consultation*Prescription treatment requires a virtual medical consultation with a medical provider to determine if a prescription is appropriate.
How to use this information
This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of a medical provider. If you have any questions, go to your patient dashboard and request a callback for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Medication name

OXYMETAZOLINE CREAM - TOPICAL

(OX-i-me-TAZ-oh-leen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Rhofade

What you should know about Oxymetazoline
  • Oxymetazoline is used to treat a certain skin disorder known as rosacea. It works by narrowing the blood vessels in the face. 
  • Oxymetazoline belongs to a class of drugs known as a sympathomimetic (alpha receptor agonist). 
  • It may help decrease facial redness caused by rosacea.
How to use Oxymetazoline
  • Read the Patient Information Leaflet and instructions for use if available from your pharmacist before you start using Oxymetazoline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, go to your patient dashboard and request a medical provider callback.
  • Use this medication on the skin only. Do not apply on irritated or broken skin. Apply a thin layer of medication to cover your entire face (forehead, nose, cheeks and chin) as directed by your medical provider, usually once daily. 
  • Wash your hands right after applying this medication. Do not use in your eyes, mouth or vagina. Avoid contact with your lips and eyes. If you accidentally get this medication in your eyes, rinse with large amounts of cool water.
  • If you are using the pump, read the instructions for use to learn how to correctly prime the pump before using it for the first time. The tubes do not need priming.
  • Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. 
  • Do not use more of this medication or use it more often or for longer than prescribed. Your skin will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
  • Tell your medical provider if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Potential side effects
  • Skin reactions (dermatitis), redness, pain or worsening of rosacea pimples 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.
  • 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.

Precautions to be aware of
  • Before using Oxymetazoline, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. 
  • This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
  • Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history, especially of glaucoma.
  • Before having surgery, tell your medical provider or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products. 
  • 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 breast-feeding.
Drug interactions
  • 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.
What to do in the event of an overdose

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.

Additional notes
  • 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 your medical provider directs you to do so. A different medication may be necessary in that case.
  • Sun can worsen rosacea. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater.
  • Avoid triggers that may worsen rosacea such as wind, hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol and extreme cold. Discuss with your medical provider.
What to do if you miss a dose

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.

How to store this medication
  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. 
  • 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.
Treatment for
Generic Name
Oxymetazoline
Brand
Oxymetazoline
Drug Class
Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist

What is Dr. B?

At Dr. B, you can get convenient medical care—including prescription treatments—right from home. We believe everyone deserves affordable access to healthcare. That's why an online consultation with a licensed provider is only $15. Need more financial support? Dr. B also offers a No-Cost Care* option for those who qualify.

* Financial hardship assistance available for those who qualify

Send your prescription anywhere

Walgreens logo Amazon logo Walmart logo CVS logo

Send your prescription to thousands of pharmacies for pickup or online delivery. Your choice.

Young woman wearing a pink shirt, leaning over a kitchen island, looking and smiling slightly at her phone

How Dr. B treats rosacea

1
Health assessment

Tell us about your condition with a $15 online consultation—no video call necessary.

2
Provider review

A medical provider will review your information and prescribe treatment, if appropriate.

3
Get your medication

Pick up and pay for the medication at the pharmacy of your choice. Or, get it delivered.

How much will it cost?

Dr. B offers online consultations for $15—which is less than most copays. If a rosacea prescription is appropriate, your out-of-pocket medication cost will depend on your insurance and where you decide to get your prescription filled.

Dr. B logo
$15
Online visit with Dr. B
+
CVS Pharmacy logo
Walmart logo
Rite Aid logo
Costco Wholesale logo
Walgreens logo
Prices vary

Medication

More rosacea Options

More options...

“The process could not have been easier. My chart was reviewed by a licensed professional and I was able to pick up my prescription at my preferred local pharmacy within a few hours.”

Meghan E. from Florida

Verified Patient

“Dr. B made it easy and affordable to get my medication. I was able to get a prescription without having to go through the hassle of having to make a doctor’s appointment, take time off work, etc., all while knowing that there is a trusted medical professional taking care of me.”

Marsha D. from Florida

Verified Patient

“The process for the Dr. B birth control was very easy and efficient. The website made getting prescription birth control easily accessible, especially for someone like me who does not have an established primary doctor in the area yet.”

Jennifer F. from Florida

Verified Patient

Featured On

The New York Times logo
Axios logo
TIME logo
Bloomberg logo
Fast Company logo
ABC logo