Noritate (metronidazole) is a medication that is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is commonly prescribed to treat skin conditions such as rosacea and inflammation of acne. Noritate belongs to a class of drugs called nitroimidazoles, which work by blocking the growth and reproduction of bacteria. Uses Noritate is primarily used to treat infections that are caused by bacteria in the body. Some of the common skin conditions that Noritate is prescribed for include: - Rosacea: A chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels in the face. - Acne: An inflammatory skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. - Inflammation of acne: Redness and swelling of acne. Noritate may also be used to treat infections in the vagina, stomach, intestines, or respiratory tract. Dosage Noritate comes as a cream that is applied topically to the skin. The dosage and length of treatment will depend on the condition being treated and the severity of the infection. For the treatment of rosacea and inflammation of acne, Noritate is usually applied once or twice daily. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor and to continue using the medication for the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve. If you have been prescribed Noritate for an infection in another part of the body, your doctor will provide specific dosing instructions. Demographic Noritate can be used by adults of any age who are suffering from bacterial infections in the skin, vagina, stomach, intestines or respiratory tract. It is not recommended for use in children under the age of 12. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before using Noritate, as it is not yet known whether this medication can harm a developing fetus. Metronidazole is secreted into breast milk and should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers. Side Effects Like all medications, Noritate can cause side effects. Common side effects of Noritate include: - Dryness or flaking of the skin. - Mild burning or stinging sensation. - Metallic taste in the mouth. - Mild skin irritation or itching. - Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. - Headache. Serious side effects of Noritate are rare, but can include: - Severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face or throat). - Disorientation, confusion or hallucinations. - Rapid heartbeat or chest pain. - Seizures or convulsions. If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention right away. Interactions Noritate may interact with other medications, herbal remedies and supplements. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before starting treatment with Noritate. Drugs that may interact with Noritate include: - Blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin) - Lithium - Phenytoin - Cyclosporine - Disulfiram Taking Noritate with these medications can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Generic Options Noritate is the brand name for metronidazole cream. Generic versions of the medication are available under the names Metrogel, Metrolotion, and Metrocream. These generic versions contain the same active ingredient and are just as effective as the brand name medication. In Summary Noritate is a medication that is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, vagina, stomach, intestines, or respiratory tract. It is primarily used to treat conditions such as rosacea and inflammation of acne. The medication comes as a cream that is applied topically to the skin. Common side effects of Noritate include dryness or flaking of the skin, mild burning or stinging sensation and nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Noritate may interact with other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, and generic options are available. If you experience serious side effects while taking Noritate, seek medical attention right away.