What is Rozex Gel?

Rozex Gel contains metronidazole 0.75%, a topical antibiotic applied directly to the skin. Because it is not swallowed, it avoids the whole-body effects of an antibiotic tablet, which is why it is usually the first thing tried for mild to moderate perioral dermatitis.

How does it treat perioral dermatitis?

Metronidazole works mainly by damping down inflammation in the skin rather than by clearing a specific infection. Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory rash rather than a straightforward infection, which is why an anti-inflammatory action is what helps.

Who this is suitable for

Adults with perioral dermatitis diagnosed by a healthcare professional, where the rash is mild to moderate and confined to the face. Our prescribers will also consider your symptoms, allergies, medical conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status and current medicines.

When this is not the right starting point

Do not use this if the rash involves your eyes, is weeping or crusting, or if you feel unwell with it. See your GP or a dermatologist instead. You should also be assessed in person if the rash is widespread, if you have already completed treatment without improvement, or if you are unsure of the diagnosis.

Stopping steroid creams

Perioral dermatitis is very often caused by a steroid cream used on the face. If that applies to you, stopping the steroid is the single most important part of treatment. Expect the rash to flare for two to four weeks after you stop before it begins to settle. This is normal and is not a sign the treatment has failed.

How long it takes

Most people see a clear improvement within six to eight weeks. Treatment is reviewed at twelve weeks.

How to use Rozex Gel for perioral dermatitis

If prescribed, apply a thin layer twice a day, morning and evening. Always follow your pharmacy label.

Clean First: Wash the area with a mild, non-soap cleanser and pat dry.
Apply Thinly: Spread a thin layer over the whole affected area, not just the visible spots.
Avoid: Keep it away from your eyes, your lips and the inside of your nose.
Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands before and after each application.
Keep Going: Continue for the full course even once the skin starts to improve.
Do Not Share: Do not share your medicine with anyone else.

If you miss an application

Apply it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next one. If it is nearly time, skip the missed application and carry on as normal. Do not apply extra to make up for one you missed.

Looking after your skin while you treat it

Use a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser and a daily SPF. Avoid scrubs, astringents and heavy make-up over the area. Stop all steroid creams on your face unless a doctor has specifically told you otherwise.

Who should not use Rozex Gel

Anyone allergic to metronidazole or other nitroimidazoles
Anyone with an active skin infection at the treatment site, until that has been treated
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, unless a prescriber has judged the benefit to outweigh the risk

Off-label use

No medicine holds a UK licence specifically for perioral dermatitis. This treatment is prescribed off-label, which means your prescriber is using it outside the terms of its licence because the evidence supports it. You will be asked to confirm you understand this during your consultation.

Active ingredient

Each gram of gel contains 7.5mg of metronidazole (0.75% w/w).

Other ingredients

Inactive ingredients differ between manufacturers. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack for the complete ingredient list, particularly if you have an allergy or intolerance. If you have a known allergy, tell us during your consultation so our clinicians can check the pack before we dispense.

Like all medicines, metronidazole gel can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common or recognised effects

Mild stinging, burning or warmth where you apply it
Redness or dryness of the treated skin
Itching or mild irritation
Flaking or peeling

Applying a thin layer, and using a plain fragrance-free moisturiser afterwards, usually helps with dryness and irritation. Symptoms often flare briefly before improving, particularly if you have just stopped a steroid cream.

Stop using metronidazole gel and call 999 or go to A&E if you develop

Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread itchy rash
A severe rash with blistering or peeling skin

Contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly if you develop

Skin that becomes very sore, swollen or weeping
Signs of a skin infection, such as spreading redness, crusting or pus
Any reaction that gets worse rather than settling after the first few weeks