Description
How it works
Rozex contains metronidazole, an antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent.
In rosacea, the skin can show:
- Inflamed red bumps (papules)
- Pus-filled spots (pustules)
- Persistent redness (erythema)
While the exact mechanism in rosacea isn’t fully understood, evidence suggests metronidazole helps by:
- Antibacterial action – reducing certain bacteria on the skin that may contribute to inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory action – reducing inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species in the skin
This leads to:
- Fewer spots and pustules
- Reduced redness and swelling
- Calmer, less irritated skin
Your 24 HR Pharmacy description aligns with this – it notes that metronidazole prevents bacteria from growing and multiplying and helps reduce redness and inflammation associated with rosacea.
Who it may be suitable for
From the SmPC and PIL, Rozex is indicated for:
- Adults with rosacea affecting the face
- Specifically inflammatory papules, pustules and erythema of rosacea
It may be suitable if:
- You have been diagnosed with rosacea
- You have pimples, pustules and redness on your cheeks, nose, forehead or chin
- You’re looking for a topical (on-the-skin) treatment to help control spots and redness over time
On 24 HR Pharmacy, Rozex appears in the Rosacea section, and you start with an online rosacea consultation so a UK prescriber can confirm it’s appropriate and safe for you.
Who it may not be suitable for
You must not use Rozex if:
- You are allergic to metronidazole or any of the ingredients (e.g. benzyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, which can cause local reactions)
- You have Cockayne syndrome – serious liver toxicity, including fatal cases, has been reported with systemic metronidazole in patients with this condition, so topical metronidazole is contraindicated
Not recommended:
-
Children and adolescents: Rozex cream is not recommended in those under 18 years – safety and efficacy have not been established.
Use with caution and only on medical advice if:
- You have a history of blood disorders (blood dyscrasias)
- You use warfarin or other coumarin anticoagulants – systemic metronidazole can increase their effect; although absorption from the cream is low, rare changes in INR have been reported
- You have very sensitive skin or a history of contact dermatitis
- You are prone to photosensitivity – treated areas should avoid strong sunlight or UV while using Rozex
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: There is limited experience with Rozex in pregnancy. Because oral metronidazole has shown carcinogenicity in some animal studies, the SmPC advises using Rozex in pregnancy only if clearly needed, and after careful risk–benefit consideration by a doctor.
- Breastfeeding: Oral metronidazole is excreted in breast milk. Systemic exposure from the cream is much lower, but a decision should be made to either stop breastfeeding or stop the medicine, depending on how important the treatment is to the mother.
Always tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Possible side effects are:
- Dry skin
- Redness of the skin (erythema)
- Itching (pruritus)
- Skin discomfort (burning, pain, stinging)
- Skin irritation
- Worsening of rosacea
The SmPC gives the following frequencies:
Common (up to 1 in 10 people):
- Dry skin
- Redness (erythema)
- Itching (pruritus)
- Skin discomfort (burning, pain, stinging)
- Skin irritation
- Worsening of rosacea
Uncommon (up to 1 in 100 people):
- Numbness (hypoaesthesia) or tingling (paraesthesia) in fingers or toes
- Metallic taste in the mouth (dysgeusia)
- Nausea
Frequency not known:
- Contact dermatitis (allergic reaction on the skin)
- Swelling of the face
- Peeling/flaking skin (exfoliation)
- Watery eyes (if applied too close to the eyes)
Most side effects are mild and local, and often settle if you:
- Use less cream/gel
- Reduce to once daily
- Pause treatment briefly until skin calms
Stop using Rozex and seek medical advice promptly if you:
- Develop severe redness, burning, blistering, or worsening rosacea
- Notice swelling of the face, lips or tongue, hives, or difficulty breathing (possible allergic reaction)
Side effects can also be reported through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme (link provided on the emc site).
Patient Information Leaflet
Please see HERE for the Patient Information Leaflet
Additional Info
Key facts:
- Name: Rozex 0.75% w/w Cream (and corresponding 0.75% Gel preparation)
- Active ingredient: Metronidazole 0.75% w/w (7.5 mg per g)
- Indication: treatment of inflammatory papules, pustules and erythema of rosacea
- Age range: Adults – not recommended in children/adolescents
- Average treatment length: 3–4 months; may be extended if clearly beneficial, but long-term use should be reviewed.
- Excipients of note (cream):
- Benzyl alcohol (E1519) – may cause allergic reactions and mild local irritation
- Cetostearyl alcohol – may cause local skin reactions (contact dermatitis)
- Polysorbate 60 – can cause allergic reactions
- Storage: Do not store above 25°C and do not refrigerate; replace the cap tightly after use.
- Systemic absorption: After topical use, blood levels of metronidazole are about 100 times lower than after a standard oral dose, meaning systemic side effects are much less likely.
- Legal status: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK.
From 24 HR Pharmacy:
- Rozex sits under Rosacea in Skin Health → Prescription Only Medicines.
- All orders placed by 3pm and approved (Monday–Friday) are usually dispatched the same day.
Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before using Rozex.
Directions
Always use Rozex exactly as directed by your prescriber and the pharmacy label.
From the SmPC:
Usual dose (adults & elderly)
- Apply twice a day – morning and evening
- Apply a thin layer of cream or gel to the affected areas of the face
- Rub in gently
The average treatment period is 3–4 months. The recommended duration should not be exceeded, although if you clearly benefit, your doctor may advise further 3–4 month courses; in studies, topical metronidazole was used for up to 2 years under supervision.
Step-by-step application
- Clean and dry the skin
- Gently wash the affected areas with lukewarm water or a mild, non-irritating cleanser
- Pat dry – don’t scrub
- Apply Rozex
- Squeeze out a small amount of cream/gel
- Apply a thin film to all affected areas (not just individual spots)
- Rub in gently until absorbed
- Avoid sensitive areas
- Keep away from eyes, eyelids, mouth, lips and inside the nose
- If it gets in your eyes or on mucous membranes, rinse thoroughly with plenty of warm water
- Hands and cosmetics
- Wash your hands after applying
- You may use non-comedogenic, non-astringent cosmetics after Rozex has absorbed and dried
- Length of treatment
- Rosacea can respond slowly; it’s important to use Rozex regularly as directed
- If there is no clear improvement after a few months, or your rosacea worsens, treatment should be reviewed and may need to be stopped
If irritation occurs, the PIL advises using the cream less often or stopping temporarily until irritation settles, then restarting if advised by a healthcare professional.
Missed a dose?
If you forget to use Rozex:
- Don’t worry – the cream works best when used regularly, but missing a single dose is not dangerous
- Apply it as soon as you remember, then continue as normal
- If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and use your normal amount at the usual time
- Do not apply extra cream/gel to make up for a missed dose – this increases the risk of irritation without improving results
If you stop too early, your rosacea may flare again, so continue until your doctor or prescriber advises you to stop.
FAQs
What is Rozex used for?
Rozex 0.75% Cream or Gel is used to treat facial rosacea by targeting inflamed spots and redness while helping to control skin infection and inflammation for an improved appearance.
How long does Rozex take to work?
Rosacea treatment responds slowly with some noticing improvement after a few weeks, though the average course lasts 3 to 4 months; if there is no clear improvement after several months or if symptoms worsen, you should consult your doctor or 24 HR Pharmacy prescriber.
Does Rozex cure rosacea?
No, Rozex does not cure rosacea but serves to control symptoms like spots and redness during use, though flares can recur if treatment is stopped or triggers like sun and stress are not managed.
Can I use make-up and skincare with Rozex?
You can use make-up and skincare with Rozex by applying the medication first to clean skin and letting it absorb before using non-comedogenic moisturiser or sunscreen, but you should avoid alcohol-based toners and harsh scrubs that increase irritation.
Can I drink alcohol while using Rozex?
While the systemic absorption of topical Rozex is low and a reaction is unlikely compared to oral versions, the patient information leaflet still advises avoiding alcohol during treatment.
Is Rozex safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Rozex should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed after a doctor weighs the risks and benefits, and breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor to decide between treatment and nursing due to potential absorption concerns.
What should I do if my skin gets very irritated, red or sore?
If significant irritation occurs, try reducing application to once daily and using fragrance-free moisturiser, but stop use and contact your GP or 24 HR Pharmacy prescriber if it persists; seek urgent help for facial swelling or breathing difficulties.
How do I get Rozex from 24 HR Pharmacy?
To get Rozex from 24 HR Pharmacy, visit the product page and complete the online consultation for a UK-registered prescriber to review; once approved, orders placed by 3pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day.
How it works
Simple, safe, and designed around you. Here is what happens from start to finish.
Complete a Quick Online Assessment
Tell us about your health, goals, and any medicines you're taking. This helps us understand whether your chosen treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
Review by Our Prescriber
A UK-registered prescriber reviews your assessment—often the same day. If we need anything else, we'll contact you by secure message, phone, or email.
Fast, Discreet Dispensing & Delivery
Once approved, your treatment is dispensed and prepared for dispatch in plain, discreet packaging—no product names on the outside.
Ongoing Support
You'll receive easy, practical instructions tailored to your treatment—so you feel confident from day one.
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