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Compare Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

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

  • Brimonidine (Mirvaso)
    Rhofade (oxymetazoline)
  • Brimonidine (Mirvaso)
    Rhofade (oxymetazoline)

  • Summary of Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

    Summary for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Brimonidine (Mirvaso) is a topical gel used to treat adults with facial redness from rosacea that doesn't go away. It's only available with a prescription and belongs to a class of medications called alpha-2 agonist. The gel is applied directly to the face once per day. Side effects are rare but can include skin flushing and a burning sensation. Some people might also experience rebound erythema, where their facial redness worsens after starting the medication.

    Summary for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Rhofade (oxymetazoline) is an alpha-1 receptor agonist. It contains oxymetazoline 1% topical cream and is used to treat facial redness in adults with rosacea. Rhofade (oxymetazoline) is applied to the face once per day. Most people don't experience any side effects from Rhofade (oxymetazoline). But those who do report have reported irritation or rash at the application site. Rhofade (oxymetazoline) is prescription-only and not available as a generic.

  • Indications of Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

    Indications for
    •Facial redness caused by rosacea in adults
    Indications for
    •Facial redness caused by rosacea in adults

  • Pros and Cons of Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

    Pros and Const for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Starts working quickly to improve skin
    •Only needs to be applied once daily
    •Generally well tolerated with few side effects
    Cons
    •Might lead to rebound erythema, making redness worse than before
    •Might cause problems in blood circulation
    •Not known whether it's safe for children
    Pros and Const for Alpha adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Only need to use once daily
    •Available in an easy-to-use pump or tube
    •Skin might improve after a single application
    Cons
    •Can take a few weeks to months to see more noticeable results
    •Not an option for children
    •Only available as a brand-name medication

  • Common Side Effects of Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

    Common Side Effects for
    •Redness (4%)
    •Flushing (3%)
    •Burning sensation (2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Irritation or rash at the application site (2%)

  • Warnings of Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening blood flow problems
    •Risk of low blood pressure
    •Flushing and skin color changes
    Common Side Effects for
    •Changes in blood pressure
    •Worsening blood flow problems
    •Glaucoma

  • Prices with our coupons for Mirvaso vs. Rhofade

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