METRONIDAZOLE

Metronidazole Topical Cream contains metronidazole, USP, at a concentration of 7.5 mg per gram (0.75%) in an emollient cream consisting of emulsifying wax, sorbitol solution, glycerin, isopropyl palmitate, benzyl alcohol, lactic acid, and/or sodium hydroxide to adjust pH, and purified water. Metronidazole is a member of the imidazole class of anti-bacterial agents and is classified therapeutically as an antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent. Chemically, metronidazole is 2-Methyl-5-nitroimidazole-1-ethanol. The molecular formula is C 6 H 9 N 3 O 3 and molecular weight is 171.16. Metronidazole is represented by the following structural formula:

Metronidazole Topical Cream is indicated for topical application in the treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea.

Apply and rub in a thin layer of metronidazole topical cream twice daily, morning and evening, to entire affected areas after washing. Areas to be treated should be washed with a mild cleanser before application. Patients may use cosmetics after application of metronidazole topical cream.

Metronidazole topical cream is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to metronidazole, or other ingredients of the formulation.

In controlled clinical trials, the total incidence of adverse reactions associated with the use of metronidazole topical cream was approximately 10%. Skin discomfort (burning and stinging) was the most frequently reported event followed by erythema, skin irritation, pruritus and worsening of rosacea. All individual events occurred in less than 3% of patients. The following additional adverse experiences have been reported with the topical use of metronidazole: dryness, transient redness, metallic taste, tingling or numbness of extremities and nausea.

Oral metronidazole has been reported to potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and coumarin anticoagulants, resulting in a prolongation of prothrombin time. The effect of topical metronidazole on prothrombin time is not known.