What is metronidazole cream, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Metronidazole cream is a topical preparation
(applied to the skin) of the antibiotic metronidazole. It is used for reducing
the swelling and redness caused by
acne rosacea. The mechanism through which
metronidazole cream reduces the symptoms of acne rosacea is not known. The FDA
approved metronidazole cream in September 1997.
What brand names are available for metronidazole cream?
Noritate, Metrocream
Is metronidazole cream available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for metronidazole cream?
Yes
What are the side effects of metronidazole cream?
Side effects are rare and minor. These include:
- irritation,
- skin dryness,
- scaling, and
itching at the site of application.
Individuals that are allergic to metronidazole should not use metronidazole cream.
What is the dosage for metronidazole cream?
Metronidazole cream is applied to affected areas once or twice
daily. The affected areas should be cleaned before application, and then a thin
film should be applied and rubbed into the skin. Makeup may be used after
metronidazole cream has been applied. Metronidazole cream is for external use
only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.
Which drugs or supplements interact with metronidazole cream?
Drug interactions with metronidazole cream are
unlikely because only small amounts of metronidazole are absorbed into the body
when metronidazole cream is applied to the skin. Oral metronidazole interacts
with warfarin (Coumadin), increasing the blood-thinning effects of warfarin. It
is not known whether the small amounts of metronidazole absorbed via the skin
can cause the same interaction.
Is metronidazole cream safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies of metronidazole cream in
pregnant women.
When metronidazole is administered orally it is
secreted into
breast milk in concentrations similar to the concentration in the
mothers body. Therefore, small amounts of metronidazole that are absorbed into
the body when metronidazole cream is used may be secreted into breast milk.
What else should I know about metronidazole cream?
What preparations of metronidazole cream are available?
Cream: 0.75 and 1%
How should I keep metronidazole cream stored?
Metronidazole cream should be stored at room temperature, 15 C – 30 C (59 F – 86 F)