What is Metrolotion? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Metrolotion overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Metrogel, Metrocream, Metrolotion, Rosadan, Rosadan Gel, Noritate, Rosadan Gel, Rosadan Gel Kit

Generic Names:

  • Metronidazole

Uses:

  • Treats skin redness and pimples caused by a skin condition called rosacea (adult acne, or acne rosacea).

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antiacne Antibacterial

Forms:

  • Cream, Lotion, Liquid Mixture, Gel/Jelly

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Metrolotion used for?

Metrolotion is an antibiotic used to treat a type of adult acne called rosacea. It may help to decrease redness, swelling and the number of pimples.

What form(s) does Metrolotion come in?

  • Cream

  • Lotion

  • Liquid Mixture

  • Gel/Jelly

What are common Metrolotion dosages?

  • Bottle 59ML of 0.75%

Metrolotion images - What does Metrolotion look like?

  • MetroLotion
    59ml of 0.75% bottle

How to take Metrolotion

  • Use this medicine on your skin only. Do not eat it. Wash the area to be treated with a mild soap. Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • You should not use the medicine in or near your eyes. If you do get the medicine in your eyes, rinse them well with cool water. Tell your doctor if redness or eye pain does not go away.

  • You can use cosmetics or make-up while using this medicine, however they should only be put on after you have used the metronidazole lotion, cream, or gel. Wait about 5 minutes for the medicine to dry before putting on cosmetics or make-up. If you have questions about this, talk with your doctor.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Use this medicine on your skin only. Do not eat it. Wash the area to be treated with a mild soap. Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • You should not use the medicine in or near your eyes. If you do get the medicine in your eyes, rinse them well with cool water. Tell your doctor if redness or eye pain does not go away.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • You can use cosmetics or make-up while using this medicine, however they should only be put on after you have used the metronidazole lotion, cream, or gel. Wait about 5 minutes for the medicine to dry before putting on cosmetics or make-up. If you have questions about this, talk with your doctor.

What to do if you miss a dose of Metrolotion

  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Metrolotion contraindications - Who shouldn't take Metrolotion?

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to metronidazole (MetroGel®, MetroLotion®, MetroCream®).

Metrolotion warnings

  • Do not use this medicine in or near your eyes.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have a blood disorder.

Metrolotion interactions & what to avoid when taking Metrolotion

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a blood thinner, such as warfarin (Coumadin®).

  • Talk with your doctor before using other medicated creams or ointments on the same areas that you are using metronidazole.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Metrolotion side effects - How does Metrolotion make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Tingling or numbness in your feet or hands.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Metallic taste in your mouth.

  • Mild stinging or burning where the medicine is put on your skin.

  • Nausea.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Dry, itchy, red, or irritated skin.

  • Nausea.

  • Tingling or numbness in your feet or hands.

  • Metallic taste in your mouth.

  • Mild stinging or burning where the medicine is put on your skin.