Doctors commonly prescribe Metrogel to help manage rosacea. It works by reducing the skin’s redness or other color changes and the acne-like bumps that rosacea causes.
Metrogel is a brand-name drug, but it also comes in a generic form called metronidazole gel. This generic version also comes as a cream and lotion.
To get Metrogel, you need a prescription from a doctor. This means that it’s not available over the counter (OTC) at pharmacies.
How long is Metrogel prescribed for?
How long Metrogel is prescribed for will depend on your specific condition. Doctors typically prescribe Metrogel which you’ll use twice per day for about 2 months.
Most people notice Metrogel starting to work after about 3 weeks of using it. The total duration of your treatment may be shorter or longer than 2 months, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and continue to use Metrogel for as long as instructed.
Can Metrogel be used long term?
Metrogel may sometimes be used as a long-term treatment for rosacea. Doctors may first prescribe antibiotics along with Metrogel to get your rosacea symptoms under control. They then may have you use Metrogel as a maintenance treatment to manage rosacea long term.
How do you use Metrogel for rosacea?
Metrogel’s prescribing information outlines how to best use it for rosacea as follows:
- Before applying Metrogel, cleanse and dry the areas you will be applying it to
- Wash your hands before applying Metrogel
- Apply a thin layer of Metrogel to the affected areas
- Rub Metrogel into the affected areas
- Wash your hands after applying Metrogel
- If you are applying cosmetics or moisturizer, make sure you apply them after applying Metrogel
You can use Metrogel on your body or face, but it is important not to get it near the eyes. If you notice your rosacea is affecting your eyes, talk with your doctor. They will help you find the best treatment.
You can also use a moisturizer with Metrogel. Make sure you apply the moisturizer after applying Metrogel. Make sure you choose a rosacea-friendly moisturizer. Select a moisturizer that is made for sensitive skin and is noncomedogenic (won’t clog your pores).
What if Metrogel doesn’t work?
You will typically notice Metrogel treatment working on your rosacea symptoms after about 3 weeks of consistent use. However, if you don’t notice any decrease in skin redness or discoloration, reduced swelling, or fewer acne-like bumps after a few weeks, consider talking with your doctor. They may recommend alternative treatments, including:
- Intense pulsed light therapy or laser therapy: These treatments may help reduce redness or discoloration and improve your skin’s texture.
- Brimonidine gel (Mirvaso) or oxymetazoline cream (Rhofade): These medications help reduce the amount of redness or discoloration in your skin.
- Azelaic acid foam or gel (Finacea): This medication may help with skin discoloration and acne-like bumps.
- Ivermectin cream (Soolantra): This medication helps reduce inflammation and acne-like bumps.
- Minocycline foam (Amzeeq, Zilxi): This antibiotic foam helps treat acne-like bumps.
- Low dose oral doxycycline (Oracea): Doxycycline is an antibiotic, which works to reduce swelling and inflammation that rosacea causes, and is sometimes used long term.
Summary
Doctors typically prescribe Metrogel for about 2 months, but the duration of treatment may change based on your specific condition.
Doctors typically recommend using Metrogel twice per day. You can use moisturizer after applying it. If you don’t notice any of your rosacea symptoms going away after using Metrogel for 3 weeks, talk with your doctor. They may recommend an alternative treatment.