Is MetroCream the same as metronidazole? Understanding Your Topical Rosacea Medication

October 8, 2025 •

3 min read

MetroCream is a brand name for a topical cream whose active ingredient is metronidazole. While many confuse them as being identical, the distinction lies in the name and the specific formulation. This article clarifies the relationship and helps you understand your prescription for treating rosacea.

Quick Summary

MetroCream is a brand-name topical cream used for rosacea, while metronidazole is the active ingredient and generic drug name. Both are effective, but differences exist in their formulation, cost, and availability of generic options.

Key Points

Active vs. Brand Name: MetroCream is a brand name, while metronidazole is the active pharmaceutical ingredient found in MetroCream and other products.
Therapeutic Equivalence: Generic metronidazole cream is considered therapeutically equivalent to MetroCream, meaning it provides the same treatment benefits for rosacea.
Primary Use: Both MetroCream and generic topical metronidazole are used to treat the inflammatory papules and pustules associated with rosacea.
Formulation Differences: Inactive ingredients can differ between MetroCream and generic formulations, which may impact cost and patient tolerance.
Cost Savings: Choosing a generic version of metronidazole can often result in significant cost savings compared to the brand-name MetroCream.
Prescription Required: Both MetroCream and generic metronidazole cream require a prescription from a healthcare provider for use.

What is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole is a member of the imidazole class of antibacterial agents. It is classified therapeutically as both an antiprotozoal and an antibacterial agent, and in the context of rosacea, it is believed to work primarily through its anti-inflammatory effects. It has been a cornerstone in the topical treatment of rosacea for many years, helping to reduce the inflammatory papules and pustules associated with the condition.

Metronidazole is available in several forms, including oral tablets, but topical forms like creams, gels, and lotions are used specifically for skin conditions such as rosacea. The strength is typically 0.75% or 1%, depending on the specific formulation prescribed.

The Relationship Between MetroCream and Metronidazole

So, is MetroCream the same as metronidazole? Not exactly. MetroCream is a brand-name product, a specific topical cream formulation manufactured and marketed by a pharmaceutical company, Galderma. Its primary, active ingredient is metronidazole, at a concentration of 0.75%. The key difference between MetroCream and a generic metronidazole cream is not the active ingredient, but the other components in the formulation, known as inactive ingredients.

These inactive ingredients—such as emulsifying wax, glycerin, and purified water—are what make up the cream's base. They can affect the cream's texture, how it feels on the skin, and how well the active ingredient is absorbed. For most people, this distinction is irrelevant, as the therapeutic effect comes from the metronidazole. However, for individuals with sensitivities to certain inactive ingredients, the specific formulation might be important.

Other brand names for topical metronidazole include:

MetroGel (gel)
MetroLotion (lotion)
Noritate (cream)
Rosadan (gel)

Benefits of Choosing Generic Metronidazole

Choosing a generic metronidazole cream over the brand-name MetroCream can be a significant cost-saving measure. Since the active ingredient and its concentration are the same, the generic version is considered therapeutically equivalent to the brand-name product by the FDA. While generic prices can be substantially lower, especially for higher strengths, insurance coverage and pharmacy coupons can further reduce costs.

How Topical Metronidazole Works for Rosacea

The precise mechanism by which metronidazole treats rosacea is not fully understood, but it is known to have anti-inflammatory effects that target the pustules and papules. It is not a cure for rosacea, but a long-term management tool that can significantly reduce symptoms. It typically takes a few weeks to see noticeable improvement and up to nine weeks to see the full benefit. For some patients with more severe cases, topical metronidazole may be used in combination with oral antibiotics.

Key Differences Between MetroCream and Generic Metronidazole


Feature	MetroCream (Brand)	Generic Metronidazole Cream
Active Ingredient	Metronidazole 0.75%	Metronidazole 0.75%
Inactive Ingredients	Specific, proprietary cream base with ingredients like benzyl alcohol, emulsifying wax, and glycerin.	Can vary between manufacturers; may use different ingredients for the cream base.
Cost	Typically higher than generic versions.	Generally more affordable than the brand-name alternative.
Insurance Coverage	May require prior authorization or be covered at a lower rate.	Often covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare.
Availability	Available at most pharmacies.	Widely available in both generic and brand-name formulations.

Conclusion: Is MetroCream the same as metronidazole?

In summary, MetroCream is not the same as metronidazole, but it is a specific brand-name product that contains metronidazole as its active ingredient. The therapeutic effects are derived from the metronidazole, which is a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent used to treat rosacea. The primary differences between MetroCream and a generic metronidazole cream are the inactive ingredients, the cost, and the specific manufacturer. Patients can often save money by opting for a generic version, which is therapeutically equivalent. The choice between brand and generic is a conversation to have with your healthcare provider, taking into account cost, availability, and potential sensitivities to ingredients.

For more information on rosacea treatments, consult your dermatologist or visit a reliable source such as the American Academy of Dermatology website.

Frequently Asked Questions

The active ingredient in MetroCream is metronidazole, at a concentration of 0.75%.

Yes, generic metronidazole cream is therapeutically equivalent to MetroCream. This means it contains the same active ingredient and is considered just as effective for treating the inflammatory lesions of rosacea.

Brand-name medications like MetroCream are typically more expensive than generic versions due to costs associated with research, development, and marketing. Generic manufacturers focus on producing an equivalent drug at a lower cost.

Topical metronidazole products like MetroCream are specifically indicated for treating rosacea. You should only use it as directed by your doctor for the condition it was prescribed for.

Besides MetroCream, other common brand names for topical metronidazole include MetroGel (gel), MetroLotion (lotion), and Noritate (cream).

You should apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected areas twice daily, typically in the morning and evening, after washing with a mild cleanser. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

Common side effects include skin irritation, burning, stinging, dryness, or redness. Serious allergic reactions are rare. If you experience severe irritation, tell your doctor.