Rozex Cream and Gel

What is Rozex Used For?

Rozex is a topical antibiotic treatment, available as a cream or gel, used to treat a skin condition called rosacea. The active ingredient in Rozex is metronidazole, an antibiotic that belongs to a group of medicines called antiprotozoal and antibacterial agents.

Both Rozex cream and Rozex gel help treat the pimples, pustules (spots), and redness associated with rosacea. They do this by reducing inflammation and limiting the growth of bacteria that can trigger or worsen irritation, helping clear symptoms over time.

Metronidazole is also the main active ingredient in Metrogel, another topical treatment for rosacea that helps fight the bacterial infection causing the condition. More information about Rosacea, including how it could affect you and how to get rid of it, is available on our website. 

How Rozex Works for Rosacea

How Rozex works for rosacea isn’t fully understood, but it contains an antibacterial agent called metronidazole, which belongs to a class of medications called nitroimidazole antibiotics.

Metronidazole works by lowering inflammation and reducing bacterial growth on your skin. This helps Rozex gel and cream reduce swelling, flushing, and the appearance of spots.  

How Long Does Rozex Take to Work?

It can take several weeks to notice Rozex benefits for rosacea, but it may take 3 to 4 months (the standard treatment duration) for the full effects to become clear. Always take antibiotics as prescribed. Stopping antibiotic treatment early can cause your symptoms to return.

How Effective is Rozex for Rosacea?

Rozex contains 0.75% metronidazole, which is an effective treatment for moderate to severe rosacea. A review found that 0.75% metronidazole cream and gel are significantly more effective than a placebo for treating rosacea when applied to the affected area once or twice a day for 7 to 12 weeks.

Another study comparing 0.75% metronidazole cream with 1% metronidazole cream found that the number of lesions was reduced by 62% in people given the 0.75% cream, compared with 60% in the 1% cream group. The same study found that 57% of people using the 0.75% metronidazole cream were rated as having clear to mild rosacea by the end of the study, compared to 37% treated with the 1% cream equivalent. 

How to Use Rozex Gel and Cream

Rozex is available as a cream or a gel, and both are applied directly to the affected area of your skin. They are for external use only, and you must use them exactly as prescribed by your clinician. You will usually apply Rozex twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.

To apply Rozex cream or gel, you should:

1. Wash and dry the affected area with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Then dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
2. Apply a thin layer of cream or gel to the affected area, being careful to not get it in your eyes.
3. Rub the cream or gel in well.
4. After use, replace the cap on the tube, and wash your hands with warm, soapy water.

Rozex is a topical treatment, so do not swallow it. If you accidentally swallow Rozex cream or Rozex gel, seek medical advice. Your clinician will advise how long you need to use Rozex to treat your rosacea symptoms. 

If You Forget to Use Rozex 

Although Rozex gel and cream work best when used regularly, don’t worry if you forget to use them. Simply restart your routine as normal when you remember. However, you should not apply a double dose to make up for one you have forgotten. 

If You Use Too Much Rozex

Do not try to use more Rozex cream or gel than prescribed. If you apply too much of the medication, wipe off any excess with a clean tissue or wash it off with warm water. The NHS advises against using topical metronidazole more than twice per day. 

Rozex Side Effects and Cautions

Side effects are possible with Rozex. Familiarise yourself with the potential adverse effects of the treatment, as listed in the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with the gel or cream. This will help you better understand what to expect, how to manage it, and when you may need to seek medical advice.

Potential Side Effects of Rozex Cream and Gel

Rozex cream and gel can cause side effects, but not everyone will get them. For most people, they are mild and temporary and improve as your skin adjusts to the medication. Most side effects affect the area of skin where you apply the cream or gel and can mostly be managed at home.

The table below outlines some possible side effects of Rosex gel and cream:

If you experience skin irritation while using Rozex gel or cream, you may need to use the treatment less often or stop altogether until the issue resolves. Seek medical attention from your doctor or clinician if necessary. 

Other Side Effects of Rozex Gel and Cream

Additional adverse reactions have been observed when using Rozex cream and gel, though their frequency cannot be estimated from available data. These side effects include:

• Swelling of the face
• Skin peeling
• Contact dermatitis

If you’d like more details about possible side effects, please read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medication. You can also find the leaflets for both Rozex gel and Rozex cream online.

You can report any adverse reactions you experience to your clinician or by using the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme. Doing so could help provide more information about the treatment’s safety profile. 

Rozex Interactions and Warnings

Although Rozex is an effective rosacea treatment, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Do not use Rozex cream or gel if you are:

• Allergic to metronidazole or any other ingredients listed in the medication.
• Affected by Cockayne syndrome, liver toxicity and acute liver failure have been reported in people with the condition who take metronidazole-containing products.

Avoid contact with your eyes. If it does, rinse your eye with plenty of warm water or eye wash. If any irritation persists, contact a doctor for advice. 

Precautions When Using Rozex

Before using Rozex cream or gel, tell the clinician if you have any form of blood disorder and do not use Rozex unless the clinician tells you it is safe to. This treatment is for adults only and must not be used by children.

While using Rozex, avoid strong sunlight exposure, including sunbathing, and avoid exposure to ultraviolet light, such as sunbeds and sunlamps. You must also avoid prolonged or unnecessary use of the medication, and only use it for as long as your clinician tells you to.

Rozex and Other Medicines

Tell the clinician during your consultation if you currently take any prescribed, over-the-counter, or herbal medications, as they could interact with Rozex. You must let them know if you are taking any blood-thinning medication, known as anticoagulants, such as warfarin or dicoumarin. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Rozex cream or gel is not usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor considers it essential. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you might be pregnant or are planning to get pregnant, speak to the clinician before using Rozex. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Rozex