Noritate Cream

The active ingredient in Noritate Cream is metronidazole.

Metronidazole works through both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial mechanisms. Although the exact way it helps with rosacea isn’t fully understood, it is believed to reduce skin inflammation and kill bacteria that may contribute to redness and swelling.

By lowering the activity of certain inflammatory mediators in the skin, Noritate Cream helps relieve redness, irritation, and the formation of papules and pustules (small bumps) associated with rosacea.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Noritate. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Noritate:

• Wash your hands before and after applying the cream.
• Gently clean and dry the affected area before use.
• Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area once daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Rub in gently and evenly until the cream is fully absorbed.
• Avoid applying near the eyes, inside the mouth, or on broken skin.
• Do not use other topical medications, cosmetics, or harsh cleansers on the treated area unless your healthcare professional advises otherwise.
• If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and continue with your routine. Do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed dose.
• Continue using Noritate Cream for as long as prescribed, even if your skin looks better. Stopping too soon may cause symptoms to return.

Some mild or common side effects of Noritate include:

• Skin dryness or mild irritation at the application site.
• Burning, stinging, or redness.
• Watery eyes or mild eye irritation (if applied near the eyes).
• Metallic taste in the mouth (rare).

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Noritate. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe skin irritation, rash, pain, or peeling.
• Sore throat, fever, or unusual tiredness (possible sign of blood dyscrasia).
• Blurred vision or eye pain if the cream accidentally enters the eye.
• Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands or feet (rare).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Noritate. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Noritate, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• A history of allergic reactions to metronidazole or other nitroimidazole medications.
• Blood disorders or a history of blood dyscrasias.
• Liver disease.
• Skin conditions that make your skin sensitive to topical treatments.
• A tendency toward allergic contact dermatitis.
• A history of nerve problems or tingling sensations.

Noritate Cream should not be used in individuals who:

Have had an allergic reaction to metronidazole, nitroimidazoles, or any ingredient in the cream.

Most people begin to notice an improvement in their rosacea symptoms within three to nine weeks of consistent daily use. Redness, bumps, and inflammation typically lessen over time with continued treatment.

When Noritate is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Warfarin or other anticoagulants may increase the risk of bleeding when used with topical metronidazole.
• Alcohol or alcohol-containing topical products may trigger redness or irritation.
• Other topical rosacea medications or acne treatments could increase dryness or irritation if used at the same time.
• Supplements that affect the skin or immune response.

Noritate Cream is available as a 1% topical cream containing metronidazole.

It is designed for once-daily use on affected facial areas. Your healthcare provider may adjust your treatment plan or recommend alternative formulations such as MetroGel (0.75% or 1%) or MetroLotion, depending on your skin type and response to therapy.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Noritate Cream is manufactured by Dermik Laboratories, a division of Sanofi-Aventis U.S. LLC.

Yes. Generic versions of brand-name Noritate Cream containing metronidazole 1% are available.

Do not stop using Noritate Cream without first consulting your healthcare provider. Rosacea symptoms may return if treatment is discontinued too soon.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. There is limited data on the use of topical metronidazole during pregnancy, but because absorption through the skin is low, the potential risk to the baby appears minimal. Your healthcare provider will decide if the potential benefits outweigh any risks.

Small amounts of metronidazole may pass into breast milk, even when applied topically. Although systemic exposure is low, it’s important to discuss breastfeeding with your healthcare provider before using Noritate Cream. If your doctor advises continuing treatment, avoid applying the cream to areas where your infant could come into direct contact.