Metrogel is a synthetic drug designed to fight certain types of parasites and bacteria. Topical forms, including creams, gels and lotions, are typically used to treat bacterial infections, rosacea, and vaginal infections. This substance is available in various versions and may be prescribed under different brand names.

What is Metrogel?
Metrogel is a synthetic drug that works against bacteria to get rid of infections and discomfort. The topical form of this treatment is more commonly used for vaginal and anaerobic bacterial infections, which can thrive without exposure to oxygen. In some cases, Metrogel is also effective at treating a kind of skin rash called rosacea. The Metrogel topical gel is also available in its generic form, and comes in a range of different brand names including Vandazole and Metrocream. All of these different solutions have the same effect. When deciding which form of Metrogel to prescribe, your doctor will consider various aspects including the nature of your infection and the kind of treatment that you need.
Metrogel is not available without a prescription. You will need a full doctor's assessment to make sure that Metrogel is the right treatment for you. This solution will not be prescribed in certain conditions, which will be outlined below.
When is Metrogel used?
Metrogel can be used for a variety of different purposes as an effective way of fighting against bacteria. The most common use of this metronidazole topical treatment is to get rid of the rash and spots associated with rosacea. However, there are vaginal gels available that can also help with the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Additionally, you can get various pill versions of this medication that might help to fight against internal bacteria and parasites.
Metrogel does not work on certain forms of vaginal infections including the yeast infection, and it will not work for viral infections. As an anti-bacteria solution, Metrogel may become less effective over time if you use it when it is not absolutely necessary. It is important not to take this medication unless your doctor tells you to do so. In some cases, the active ingredient in Metrogel – metronidazole – can also be used alongside other medications for the treatment of various intestinal ulcers and stomach issues caused by certain bacteria.
How do you use Metrogel?
Metrogel is a topical version of metronidazole, which means it should only ever be used on the skin and not ingested. Avoid getting this medication in your mouth, and make sure that you are extra careful when applying it around the eyes. If you apply this medicine too close to the eyes, then they will likely begin to water. If you get the drug in your eyes by accident, rinse them thoroughly with large amounts of cool water.
Make sure that you use this medicine regularly so you can get the most benefit from it. However, you should not use more of the drug than prescribed by your doctor. Metrogel is best applied at the same time each day to allow for a better routine to form. Before you apply this medication, wash and dry your hands, and make sure that the area you are treating is also clean and dry. Wait 15 minutes after washing your skin to apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area. You may need to apply this medication either once or twice a day depending on the instructions of your doctor. Wait at least five minutes before applying any cosmetics or powders.
It is unlikely that you will see results from Metrogel immediately, however you should continue to use it as directed. You will need to take about three weeks of treatment before improvement is seen, and it can take around nine weeks for the full benefit to be evident. If you do not see any improvement at all after three weeks of using Metrogel, contact your doctor to discuss alternative treatments.
What dosages are available?
When used to treat rosacea, a thin layer of Metrogel should be applied to the area once or twice a day, depending on the extent of your skin problem. Your doctor will show you how much to use and determine how often you should apply your gel. If you are applying or using Metrogel for any other reason, your doctor will tell you exactly how much to use each day. It is more common for a lengthy treatment of Metrogel to be given for rosacea. Treatments for vaginal infections typically last for five days.
What are the side effects of Metrogel?
All medications have the potential to cause side effects. If you notice any strange reactions to the medications that you are taking, it is important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist, even if the reactions are not listed here. The most common side effects of Metrogel include skin irritation and skin dryness at the point of the application. You may also notice burning and stinging after you have applied the substance. Candida vaginitis can occur when using Metrogel, and you may experience itching around the vagina as well as cramps or pain in your stomach.
Some people feel nauseous or vomit when taking Metrogel, and they may notice a loss in appetite or issues with diarrhoea and constipation. Another side effect is a metallic taste in the mouth that persists for no reason. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these problems get worse or any more serious side effects occur when you are taking this drug. This includes signs of a new infection such as a fever and rashes, or easy bruising and bleeding. Tell your doctor if you suffer from dark urine, bloating, skin rashes, depression or painful urination.
When used with alcohol, this medication can cause more serious side effects. Disulfiram reactions are common, which leads to symptoms such as severe flushing and low blood pressure. If you notice any very serious side effects such as pain in your eyes, changes in your vision, migraines, seizures or mood changes, call an emergency team for immediate help. Use of this medication for long periods of time can lead to thrush and yeast infections. Contact your doctor if you notice a change in vaginal discharge.
Serious allergic reactions to Metrogel are rare. However, you should always seek medical help immediately if you notice the symptoms of an allergic reaction, including itching, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing or difficulty swallowing.
When should you not use Metrogel?
Metrogel is not appropriate for use by all people. Your doctor will need to conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition and medical history before prescribing Metrogel to you. With that in mind, make sure that you tell your doctor everything they may need to know to make an informed decision about your treatment. Ensure that they are aware of any allergies you have to the ingredients in this product. You will be able to find a full list of ingredients on the packaging for Metrogel.
Before you begin using this medication, make sure that your doctor is aware of your medical history, particularly if you have a history of blood disorders. Metrogel should only be taken during pregnancy when it is absolutely necessary. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. Additionally, this drug passes into breast milk, so you should discuss the risks and benefits of using this medicine when you are nursing with your doctor.
Does Metrogel interact with any other medications?
Currently, there is little evidence to suggest that Metrogel interacts with most medications. Some oral versions of the drug however can interact with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, and although you are unlikely to notice the same effects when using the topical and vaginal version of Metrogel. it is best to check with your doctor as the substance can increase the blood-thinning effects of warfarin if absorbed into the blood stream.
Metrogel interacts particularly badly with alcoholic beverages. It is important to avoid drinking any alcohol when you are using this substance, even when you are only applying it topically. When Metrogel interacts with alcohol, it causes reactions similar to those that alcoholics experience when they drink alcohol and take disulfiram to reduce their desire for alcohol. The most common side effects of using Metrogel with alcohol include severe headaches, weakness and dizziness, nausea, confusion and psychosis issues including mood changes.
Where can you buy Metrogel?
Metrogel is available in a range of different forms under a number of brand names from pharmacies that are registered with the medical board. Your doctor will advise you on which kind of metronidazole medication you require to address the symptoms of your conditions. Avoid buying Metrogel if you have not received a full evaluation from your doctor first.
Can you get Metrogel without a prescription?
In the UK, Metrogel is not available without a prescription. It is important that you first speak with your doctor about your medical history and your current condition so that they can determine if this is the right treatment for you. Not everyone will be suitable for treatment with Metrogel, and there may be another treatment that your doctor deems better for you.
References:
Galderma UK Ltd, online, 2019, Metrogel, [accessed 29 June 2019] available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/922/smpc
Omudhome Ogbru, PharmaD, 2019, What is topical metronidazole? How does it work (Mechanism of action)? [accessed 29 June 2019] available at: https://www.medicinenet.com/metronidazole_gel/article.htm#what_is_topical_metronidazole_how_does_it_work_mechanism_of_action
RXlist, online, Metrogel, Metronidazole, [accessed 29 June 2019] available at: https://www.rxlist.com/metrogel-drug.htm#indications