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Compare MetroGel-Vaginal vs. Vancocin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Metronidazole (Metrogel) and vancomycin (Vancocin) are both antibiotics, but they belong to different medication classes and treat different conditions. Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibiotic used topically to treat rosacea, a type of adult acne, by reducing redness and swelling. It is available as a gel, lotion, and cream, and is typically applied once a day. Vancomycin, on the other hand, is a glycopeptide antibiotic taken orally to treat *Clostridioides difficile* (C. diff) diarrhea and severe gut infections. It is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day and comes in capsules and liquid form. While metronidazole is available as a generic and has fewer side effects than oral tablets, it can cause stinging and irritation when applied. Vancomycin is also available as a generic and is a first-line treatment for C. diff diarrhea, but it can cause nausea and has a risk of kidney damage. Additionally, vancomycin can interact with other medications that affect the kidneys or hearing, while metronidazole's main caution is avoiding eye contact to prevent irritation.

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