Metronidazole is in a class of medications called nitroimidazole antimicrobials. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. How should this medicine be used? Metronidazole comes as a cream, lotion, or gel to be applied to your skin. Metronidazole is usually is applied once or twice a day. Find patient medical information for Metronidazole topical on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Learn about Metrogel (metronidazole) usage and dosing. Read the latest news and reviews about the drug as well as potential side effects and popular alternatives. 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 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 MetroGel? MetroGel (for the skin) is used to treat skin lesions caused by rosacea. MetroGel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Metronidazole gel is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat pimples and bumps (inflammatory lesions) caused by a condition called rosacea. It is not known if metronidazole gel is safe and effective in children. Metronidazole cream, gel, and lotion are for topical use only and patients should apply a thin layer to the afected areas once-twice daily. Studies have demonstrated that for both the 0.75% and 1% formulations, once daily application of topical metronidazole is as efective as twice daily application. 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 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, usually for weeks or months. For wounds, it is usually applied once or twice daily after cleaning.