Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, Pharm.D.
Pharmacy Editor: Jay Marks, M.D.
GENERIC NAME: metronidazole cream
BRAND NAME: Noritate
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Metronidazole cream is a topical (applied to the skin) preparation 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.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
PREPARATIONS: Cream, 30 grams
STORAGE:Store at room temperature 20-25°C (68-77°F)
PRESCRIBED FOR:Metronidazole cream is used for the topical treatment of swelling and redness caused by acne rosacea. Metronidazole cream also reduces the number of acne rosacea lesions.
DOSING: Metronidazole cream is applied and rubbed into the affected areas once daily. Makeup may be used after metronidazole cream has been applied. Metronidazole cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of metronidazole cream in pregnant women.
NURSING MOTHERS: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.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects are rare and minor. Some patients may experience irritation at the site of application. Individuals that are allergic to metronidazole should not use metronidazole cream.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 1/21/2002 11:28:00 AM
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Bacterial Vaginosis - Learn about bacterial vaginosis, an infection which symptoms include an odorous vaginal discharge. The vaginal odor may be fish like, and grey in color. Treatment is necessary with antibiotics.
- Rosacea - Learn the symptoms, treatment and diet for rosacea (adult acne), a skin condition that causes facial redness, dilated blood vessels and ocular rosacea (in advanced cases).
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Skin RSS