Can you get metronidazole cream over the counter (OTC)?

Table of Content:
What is metronidazole? | Uses | Can you buy it OTC? | Getting a prescription | Price of metronidazole | Advantages of metronidazole | Potential side-effects | Application | Dermatologist tips

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What is metronidazole cream and what is it used for?

Metronidazole cream is a topical antibiotic commonly prescribed to treat rosacea and other skin conditions. It works by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of bacteria that may worsen the condition. It comes in various strengths and formulations.

Uses of metronidazole cream

• Rosacea: The most common use for metronidazole cream is managing rosacea, a chronic skin condition marked by redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps. It helps reduce redness, inflammation, and pimples.
• Perioral dermatitis: Sometimes used off-label to treat perioral dermatitis, a rash that appears around the mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Wound care (off-label): Occasionally used for wounds or ulcers with odor caused by anaerobic bacteria.
• Other skin infections (off-label): May be prescribed for certain bacterial or parasitic skin infections, depending on a healthcare provider’s evaluation.

Can you get metronidazole cream over the counter (OTC)?

No, oral and topical metronidazole are not available over the counter, since they are an antibiotic, they require a prescription from a licensed dermatologist.

How to get metronidazole cream then?

To obtain metronidazole cream for rosacea, you need a prescription from a licensed dermatologist provider. You can have a virtual consultation via Miiskin with a dermatologist, who will assess your condition and determine if metronidazole is suitable for you.

How to buy metronidazole cream online?

Once you have consulted an online dermatologist, they will give you a prescription, if appropriate. Then the prescription can be filled at a pharmacy or delivered to your home through an online pharmacy service.

What is the price of metronidazole cream?

The price for a 45-gram tube of 0.75% generic metronidazole cream starts as low as $12.01 at some pharmacies when using discount programs. Amazon Pharmacy lists the 0.75% cream at $34.25 for Prime members.

For a brand name metronidazole cream without any discounts, prices for a 45-gram tube of 0.75% metronidazole cream range between $80 and $95.

Prices vary depending on the pharmacy, state, and whether you use a discount or coupon. For the best deals, compare prices at local pharmacies or explore online options with prescription delivery services.

About metronidazole cream

Feel free to ask if you’d like more information about how metronidazole works, its side effects, or how it is used for specific conditions!

Advantages of using metronidazole cream for rosacea

Topical metronidazole is a widely used in the treatment of rosacea due to several key benefits. It reduces redness and inflammation, treats papules and pustules, and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. With anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it addresses potential triggers and is proven safe for long-term use, helping manage chronic rosacea while minimizing side effects. Additionally, affordable generic formulations make it an accessible option.

• Reduces redness and inflammation: Helps manage persistent erythema.
• Treats papules and pustules: Effective for bumps and pus-filled lesions.
• Gentle on sensitive skin: Available in irritation-minimizing formulations.
• Dual action: Combines anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
• Long-term safety: Suitable for extended use to prevent flare-ups.
• Minimal side effects: Mild dryness or irritation manageable with skincare.
• Affordable: Generic versions are cost-effective.

Are there potential side effects of using topical metronidazole?

Dr. Fernandez says that topical metronidazole is generally well-tolerated, but mild side effects such as redness, dryness, itching, or irritation may occur. These are usually temporary and improve with continued use. If severe irritation, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction develop, stop using the medication and consult your healthcare provider.

How to apply metronidazole for rosacea?

• Cleanse skin: Wash with a gentle cleanser, avoid harsh scrubs, and pat dry.
• Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer before the medication.
• Apply medication: Use a thin layer of metronidazole on affected areas, avoiding eyes, mouth, and nostrils.
• Follow schedule: Apply once or twice daily as prescribed, consistently.
• Let absorb: Wait for full absorption before using other products or makeup.

Tips from a dermatologist

• Use sunscreen: SPF 50+ broad-spectrum daily to prevent flare-ups.
• Be consistent: Results may take 4–8 weeks; don’t stop prematurely.
• Monitor side effects: Stop if severe irritation occurs and consult a doctor.
• Avoid triggers: Limit spicy foods, alcohol, temperature extremes, and stress.
• Consult dermatologist: Follow up if no improvement or worsening symptoms.

Article References:
¹ https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metronidazole-topical-route/description/drg-20064727
² https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK539728/
³ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5096126/#B10
⁴ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9645635/
⁵ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/189144
⁶ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/189144
⁷ https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75148/metronidazole-topical/details
⁸ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4665052/
⁹ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/479570