Metrogel
(metronidazole)
Treats vaginal infections and acne rosacea.
Our bottom line
Metrogel (metronidazole) is effective for bacterial infections or skin conditions, but you may need to avoid alcohol while using this.
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (metronidazole)
Upsides
- Works well for acne rosacea and most types of vaginal infections. It has fewer side-effects than oral tablets.
- It is available as a generic product.
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What to expect from Metrogel, on one page
Downsides
- May cause skin irritation.
- Drinking alcohol while taking Metrogel (metronidazole) can cause intense flushing of skin and nausea. It is less likely with the gel and cream formulations than oral tablets, but be aware.
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What to expect from Metrogel, on one page
Metrogel (metronidazole) is a nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal. It kills bacteria and reduces inflammation in patients with acne rosacea.
- Drug class: Infection
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (metronidazole)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Cream, Gel, or Ointment
- Vaginal Cream, Gel, or Ointment
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Get free coupon$48.13
- Get free discount$54.48
What to expect when you take Metrogel (metronidazole) for Rosacea
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Skin irritation
- Dry skin
It can take time for a drug to start working, or for some side effects to go away.
Source: FDA product label and Iodine pharmacistsSide effect rates for Metrogel (metronidazole)
- Vaginal discharge12%12%
- Yeast infection10%10%
- Genital irritation9%9%
- Gastrointestinal discomfort7%7%
- Headache5%5%
- Nausea/vomiting4%4%
- Pelvic discomfort3%3%
- Unusual taste2%2%
- Dizziness2%2%
- Change in white blood cells2%2%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of Metrogel.
People taking Metrogel felt side effect more
People taking Metrogel felt side effect less
Manufacturers don’t say how common these side effects are when taking Metrogel for bacterial vaginosis
- Depression
- Itching/skin rash
- Dark urine
Risks and Warnings for Metrogel (metronidazole)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › Existing nerve problems
People who have taken the oral or injectable forms of Metrogel (metronidazole) have reported nerve problems. The risk of this side effect should be low when you're using gel or cream formulation, but let your doctor know if you experience burning, prickling, or numbness of your hands and feet.
Common concerns from people taking Metrogel (metronidazole)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with animals haven’t found a risk to unborn babies, but it hasn’t been properly studied in humans.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Drinking alcohol while using Metrogel (metronidazole) may lead to bad reactions.
- Drinking alcohol while taking Metrogel (metronidazole) can cause intense flushing of skin and nausea. It is less likely with the gel and cream formulations than oral tablets, but be aware.
- Not worth itBig hassleReviewed Metrogelon 8/25/2017It cost a fortune. I fainted three times after I had 2 drinks because I was never warned about alcohol use. I really got hurt.60WomanA few monthsBacterial vaginosis