Topical Metronidazole

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole that has antibiotic and antiprotozoal effects. It was first used for vaginal trichomanas in the 60’s. Oral metronidazole reported to be useful in rosacea in 1976(Burton JL Lancet 1976; 1:1211-12) and used topically since 1979.

How Do I Use This Medication?

Topical metronidazole is available in a gel, cream, and lotion. It should be applied once or twice a day on the affected area. In the case of rosacea this may be the whole face although the involvement is usually on the central face. It is applied as a thin layer on the skin.

How Well Does It Work?

In rosacea, it reduces the inflammatory papules and pustules and has little or no effect on the flushing or vascular component of the disease. It has been shown to reduce the papules and pustules by about 65% over a nine week course. The metrogel formulation may have increased penetration into the skin but may also cause some stinging.

Topical treatment is one way of avoiding oral antibiotics, but in very inflamed cases oral treatment may be required initially. It is about as effective as oral tetracycline (NielsenPG Br J Dermatol 1983;109:63-65). Relapses after oral antibiotics can be reduced, and the condition controlled by prolonged topical therapy (Dahl MV Arch Dermatol 1998;134:679-83). Noritate cream (1% metronidazole), has been shown to work with daily dosing only. It is not helpful for rhinophyma, telangiectasias or eye roasea.

How Does It Work?

It works through multiple actions, it is antibacterial as well as being anti-inflammatory influencing neutrophil function. It may also have an action as an antioxidant, it has little effect against Demodex, which is a mite found in the hair follicles, and does not influence sebum production.

Will There Be Side Effects?

• Burning and irritation may be experienced but usually mild
• Parasthesias or tingling has been reported

• Metallic taste in the mouth and headaches may occur if applied to the base of an ulcer
• It is minimally absorbed through intact skin
• About 20% of a vaginal cream is absorbed
• About 56% of a vaginal gel is absorbed systemically

Which Brands Are Available?

• Metrogel 0.75%
• Metrocream 0.75% - Galderma
• Metrolotion 0.75%
• Noritate 1% - Dermik
• Rosasol 1% plus sunscreen - Stiefel (Canada only)

What Other Conditions Are Treated By This Medication?

Chronic ulcers - Used to reduce odour produced by anaerobic bacteria.

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