โ Active Ingredient Overview Table:
| ๐ฌ Active Ingredient (Generic Name): | Metronidazole |
|---|---|
| ๐ Indication: | Rosacea (Papulopustular), Perioral Dermatitis |
| ๐บ๐ธ US Brand Equivalent: | Metrogel, Rosalox |
| ๐ญ Manufacturer: | J. B. Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Founded: 1973) |
| ๐ฆ Packaging: | 15 g Tube |
| ๐งช Strength: | 2 % w/w |
| ๐ Delivery Time: | 6 โ 15 days |
๐ฟ What Is Metronidazole 2 % Gel (Metrogyl)?
Metrogyl Gel harnesses 2 % metronidazole in a lightweight, non-greasy gel base. Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent that exerts anti-inflammatory effects by scavenging reactive oxygen species and inhibiting neutrophil-generated reactive intermediates. When applied topically, it reduces inflammation, erythema, and papulopustular lesions in rosaceaโtypically manifesting as persistent facial redness, flushing, telangiectasia, and inflammatory bumpsโand helps manage perioral dermatitis around the mouth, nose, and eyes.
Rosacea affects up to 5 % of adults worldwide, often impairing quality of life due to chronic flare-ups. Metrogylโs gel formulation ensures even distribution over affected areas, rapid absorption, and minimal systemic exposure. Clinical trials show significant reduction in lesion count and erythema by week 4โ6 of therapy. For detailed prescribing information, consult the FDA label for Metrogel and the Drugs.com metronidazole monograph. Additional guidance on rosacea management is available via the NHS Rosacea Overview and the WHO Essential Medicines List.
๐งฌ Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C6H9N3O3 |
| Molecular Weight | 171.15 g/mol |
| Mode of Action | โข Antimicrobial: reduction of nitro group by bacterial ferredoxin โ free radical formation โ DNA damage in anaerobes โข Anti-inflammatory: scavenges reactive oxygen species, inhibits neutrophil function |
| Absorption | Minimal systemic absorption (<10 %); peak plasma levels low |
| Elimination | Primarily hepatic metabolism; excreted in urine |
Metronidazoleโs dual actionโantibacterial and anti-inflammatoryโmakes it uniquely effective for inflammatory dermatoses where microbial colonization and chronic inflammation intersect.
๐ก Indications & Application Guidelines
| Condition | Application Regimen |
|---|---|
| Papulopustular Rosacea | โข Cleanse face with gentle non-soap cleanser; pat dry. โข Apply a thin layer of Metrogyl Gel to affected areas twice daily (morning & evening). โข Continue for 6โ12 weeks or as directed. |
| Perioral Dermatitis | โข Wash and dry perioral region. โข Apply a pea-sized amount of gel around mouth/nose area once or twice daily. โข Continue 4โ6 weeks; reassess if persistent. |
| Off-Label: Acne Vulgaris (Inflammatory) | โข Apply thinly to inflammatory lesions once daily at night. โข Use for 8โ12 weeks alongside other acne measures as tolerated. |
- Preparation: Gently cleanse with lukewarm water or mild cleanser; pat dry.
- Application: Dispense a pea-sized ribbon (โ 1 cm) onto clean fingertips; gently spread evenly across the lesion field (entire cheeks, nose, forehead, chin for rosacea).
- Frequency: Twice daily for rosacea; once or twice daily for perioral dermatitis. Adjust based on toleranceโif excessive dryness or irritation, reduce to once daily.
- Additional Care: Avoid irritating cosmetics or harsh cleansers. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to minimize UV-induced flare-ups.
Do not occlude unless instructed. Avoid eye contact; if accidental, rinse thoroughly. Discontinue use and consult a physician if severe irritation or signs of hypersensitivity occur.
โ ๏ธ Warnings & Side Effects
Common (โค 10 %):
- Mild burning or stinging upon application
- Dryness, peeling, transient erythema
Less Common (โค 1 %):
- Pruritus (itching), contact dermatitis
- Paresthesia at application site (tingling)
Serious (Rare):
- Extensive erythema and edema requiring treatment discontinuation
- Hypersensitivity reactions: urticaria, angioedema (very rare)
- Precautions:
โข Avoid use in the first trimester of pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; limited data exist on dermatologic topical use in pregnant/lactating women.
โข Use with caution in immunocompromised patientsโmonitor for signs of secondary infection.
โข Do not use at the same time as other topical antibiotics on the same site.
๐ฅ Storage Instructions
Store Metrogyl Gel at 20 ยฐC โ 25 ยฐC (68 ยฐF โ 77 ยฐF) in its original tube. Protect from light and moisture. Discard 6 months after first opening. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
๐ Availability & Purchasing
- United States: Metrogel (Metronidazole 0.75 %) is prescription-only; 2 % gel is less commonโusually available via compounding pharmacies.
- United Kingdom & EU: Topical metronidazole gels (0.75 %โ1 %) available by prescription; 2 % strength may require special order.
- Australia: Topical metronidazole 0.75 % gel is prescription-only; higher concentrations generally not standard.
Patients may import Metrogyl 2 % from India under personal import regulations, provided a valid prescription is documented. Check local rules to ensure compliance and avoid delays.
๐ Authoritative Resources
๐ Related Dermatology Products (Indian Brands)
- Clindac A Gel โ Clindamycin 1 % gel for inflammatory acne.
- Adapen Gel โ Adapalene 0.1 % gel for comedonal/inflammatory acne.
- Aziderm 10 % Gel โ Azelaic Acid 10 % gel for acne & rosacea.
๐ฅ Educational Video on Topical Metronidazole in Rosacea
๐จโโ๏ธ Expert Insight: Dr. Arjun Malhotra, Dermatologist
โTopical metronidazole 2 % gel delivers robust anti-inflammatory benefits for papulopustular rosacea. By reducing free radicals and neutrophil-mediated damage, it often restores clear skin within weeks.โ
Note: Always consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider before using Metrogyl Gel to ensure accurate diagnosis, proper prescription, and monitoring of treatment response.




