Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Metronidazole Cream (MetroGel) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Metronidazole 0.75% Gel (45g) | $15 – $35 | $5 – $12 |
| Metronidazole 1% Gel (60g) | $20 – $50 | $8 – $15 |
| Metronidazole 0.75% Cream (45g) | $15 – $35 | $5 – $12 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1–2 generic — widely covered for rosacea treatment
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Generic topical metronidazole costs $15 to $50 without insurance depending on formulation and size. It is available as cream, gel, and lotion.
Topical metronidazole is primarily used to treat rosacea, reducing redness and inflammatory bumps. It has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Improvement in rosacea symptoms is usually seen within 3 to 4 weeks, with maximum benefit at 8 to 12 weeks of consistent twice-daily application.