Galderma Laboratories has announced the availability of a new pump dispenser design for MetroGel ( Metronidazole ) Gel, 1%, the most powerful strength of topical Metronidazole available in a gel to treat the inflammatory lesions ( bumps and blemishes ) associated with rosacea.

Results from a new survey of 207 physician-diagnosed rosacea patients, ages 25 to 65, found 69% of patients prefer a pump over a tube. Patients in the survey also felt the pump was more aesthetically pleasing and reported the pump delivery facilitates product handling and storage and minimizes waste. Additionally, patients thought the pump delivery would help them to follow their doctor's instructions on product usage.

MetroGel 1% has an exclusive formula that contains HSA-3, which is a combination of ingredients including Betadex, Niacinamide Vitamin B3, and Propylene glycol. In a 92% water-based gel, these ingredients work together to help skin retain moisture while enhancing absorption of Metronidazole.

Patients who used MetroGel 1% experienced a 71% median reduction in inflammatory lesions after 10 weeks of treatment.

In clinical trials, the most common side effects reported are sore throat/nasal congestion, upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, skin irritation, burning, dryness and transient redness. Patients also sometimes report a metallic taste and tingling or numbness in the extremities when using topical Metronidazole.

Caution should be used when prescribing Metronidazole products for patients with blood dyscrasia, and patients using blood thinning agents such as Warfarin ( Coumadin ) may experience prolonged prothrombin times.
MetroGel 1% is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Metronidazole or any other ingredient in the formulation.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the face. It is prevalent amongst fair-skinned individuals, especially of Celtic and northern European origin and is more common in women. The characteristic skin lesions ( redness, visible blood vessels, papules and pustules ) appear in the middle of the face ( forehead, nose, cheeks ) between the ages of 20 and 50, but typically are most common in men and women between the ages 30 to 65. Flushing due to triggers, including spicy food, alcohol, weather changes, sun, and hot showers, often have a negative impact on the patients' social life. Stinging, burning and sensitivity of the skin and intolerance to cosmetics are also very common and in some cases the eyes can become red, dry and itchy.
The pathogenesis of the disease is not yet fully known, however the inflammatory response and facial vessels may play an important role, particularly in the pustulopapular form of the disease. It is currently held that there is no bacterial pathogen directly related to the etiology of rosacea.
Presently, there is no cure for rosacea, but topical medication, systemic therapy and laser treatments may suppress its signs and symptoms. Patients should avoid triggering factors, use sun protection and gentle skin-care products. Early diagnosis and management of the disease can help limit its progression. ( Xagena )

Source: Galderma, 2012

XagenaMedicine2012