Description Metronidazole topical gel is used to treat inflammatory lesions (pimples and red bumps) caused by rosacea. Rosacea is a skin disease that causes redness and pimples on your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Metronidazole cream is a medication that treats rosacea by decreasing inflammation and destroying bacteria growth on your skin. Rosacea causes redness and inflammation on your face. Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole with antiprotozoal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties and is available in oral and topical formulations. The diverse mechanisms of action of metronidazole have expanded its utility across various dermatologic conditions. What is metronidazole topical? Metronidazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosacea. Metronidazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Metronidazole Topical: learn about side effects, dosage, special precautions, and more on MedlinePlus See how topical metronidazole is used for rosacea and skin inflammation, plus what to know about application, side effects, and safety. Topical metronidazole is a medication for the treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules (bumps and pimples) of rosacea. It is available by prescription in gel, cream, and lotion preparations of 0.75% formulations and in gel and cream preparations of 1% formulations, applied once or twice a day as directed by a physician. 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. Metronidazole gel and cream are antimicrobial skin preparations. They are used to treat rosacea or to reduce unpleasant smells from infected wounds. For rosacea, apply a thin layer twice daily to affected areas of the face. For wounds, the gel is typically applied once or twice daily after cleaning. Find patient medical information for Metronidazole topical on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings.