Rozex belongs to categories known as antiprotozoal and antibacterial medicines. It is developed and marketed by Galderma and is available both as a cream and as a gel. Both forms contain 0.75% of active ingredient metronidazole and both are used in rosacea treatment. This branded medication is exceptionally easy to use – you simply apply it to the affected skin area in order to eliminate the bacteria that might be present while at the same time reducing the inflammatory process.
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Rosacea – A short overview
Rosacea is a skin condition marked by characteristic cycles of periods of increased and decreased activity and prominence. Although it primarily affects the face, it can sometimes also spread to eyes where it can cause redness, dryness and feeling of obstruction. Its major symptoms include thickening of the skin, appearance of blood vessels through the skin, redness or flushing, appearance of small raised spots (papules) and in a limited number of cases, pustules or pus-filled lumps.
While it may come as a surprise to some, rosacea is a very common condition, affecting roughly 10% of the population of the United Kingdom, according to NHS research. Usually localized to the face area, the root causes of rosacea have yet to be identified, with several competing hypothesis being presented by the scientific community and medical experts.
The most popular of them pins the blame to compromised function of the blood vessels on the face and subsequently, to damage of the blood vessels caused (or at least exacerbated) by sunlight exposure.
On the other hand, some scientists claim that mites of the genus demodex folliculorum that commonly live on the human skin can be considered to be the main culprit. Although harmless in everyday circumstances, once overpopulated, they can bring on a whole invasion of potentially harmful bacteria.
And finally, some believe that that neither of the two theories can explain rosacea. Instead, they suggest that the root cause of the condition can be found in peptides, molecules that naturally exist within the skin. However, certain external stimuli such as alcohol consumption, spicy food and even strong emotions can make the peptides enter into the period of increased activity. This process, in turn, can lead to the increased activity of the immune system and the subsequent release of chemicals that cause the characteristic rosacea symptoms.
Of course, the possibility of all three theories contributing to the condition has not been ruled out.
How do Rozex products treat rosacea?
The active ingredient of Rozex gel and cream, metronidazole, is an antibiotic that prevents the development of infected pustules and has numerous anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin. The exact mechanism of action is, as of now, yet unknown, mostly because the causes of rosacea are also still open for debate. Despite the fact that rosacea was not confirmed to be a bacterial infection, the treatment does produce the desired results, limiting and mitigating the symptoms. Scientists agree that the usage of Rozex can help limit bacteria spread and sooth the inflammation, similar to Efracea and Finacea.
How to use Rozex gel and cream?
Whether you opt for gel or cream, you won’t have any issues with using Rozex products. Both contain the same amount of active ingredient and both are used in the same manner:
- Use as instructed by your doctor
- Clean the affected are before application
- Apply a thin layer of gel or cream to the affected area and rub in fully
- Avoid contact with eyes
- Wash your hands after use and replace the product lid
- Apply gel or cream twice per day, once in the morning and once in the evening (unless doctor suggests otherwise)
- The total duration of the treatment will be determined by your doctor
What are Rozex side effects?
As with all medicines, it is important to get familiar with potential side effects so you can identify them early if you do notice an adverse reaction to the treatment. The most important thing you should have in mind is that you might be allergic to one or more ingredients of the drug, so if you notice any typical symptoms of an allergic reaction, you should contact the emergency services immediately.
The documented side effects of Rozex products include:
Frequency of occurrence | Side effects |
Common (1 in 10 users or less) | Red, itchy or dry skin, irritation or worsening of rosacea symptoms |
Uncommon (1 in 100 users or less) | Numbness in the fingers or toes, nausea or a metallic taste in mouth |
Rozex contraindications and precautions
As is the case with all prescription medication, Rozex products aren’t safe for anyone and there are some things you should keep in mind when using them. In terms of drug interactions, Rozex products have been documented to interact with anticoagulants such as warafin or dicoumarin. On the other hand, it is also vital to make your doctor aware of your medical history as some existing conditions might be considered to be contraindications (such as blood disorders).
This medicine is usually not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If this is the case, consult with the doctor about potential harmful effects the treatment might have on the health of your baby.
Consumption of alcohol is also not recommended during the period you are using Rozex products, and the same goes with exposure to UV rays or direct sunlight. The best way to ensure optimal safety of your Rozex treatment is to make use of consultations with a doctor to thoroughly present your medical history as he will then be able to assess your suitability for Rozex treatment.