Mirvaso Gel

Mirvaso Gel

Mirvaso Gel is a skin preparation that is used to treat rosacea. Rosacea is characterised by redness of the face, with increased visibility of blood vessels and red spots. Rosacea can make the skin feel very sore, but can also lead to feelings of embarrassment.

About Mirvaso

• Mirvaso contains the active ingredient brimonidine
• Mirvaso works by causing blood vessels in the skin to constrict, reducing redness
• Mirvaso should be used every day
• The gel is easy to apply
• Mirvaso should not be used near the eyes or mouth
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

How Does Mirvaso Work?

Rosacea is a condition that most commonly affects the face. The nose, cheeks and forehead are often involved, but rosacea can also affect the neck, chest, and ears.

Rosacea causes flushing of the face, redness that may look like sunburn, red spots and whiteheads, and increased visibility of the blood vessels. People with rosacea can feel self-conscious about their appearance, but many people also seek treatment because the inflammation can cause a burning or stinging sensation.

Mirvaso acts on receptors within the blood vessels of the face. It causes the blood vessels to constrict and get smaller, limiting blood flow to the area and therefore reducing the visible redness of the skin.

How is Mirvaso Used?

It is important to wash your hands before and after applying Mirvaso.

At first, you should apply a pea-sized amount of Mirvaso to your finger, and then evenly spread the gel across the face in the areas where rosacea occurs. If you do not experience any side effects, your prescriber may advise that you increase the amount of Mirvaso you use.

Avoid getting Mirvaso near the eyes or mouth; if this occurs you should wash the area immediately.

If you use make up, you should wait around 15 minutes for Mirvaso to soak into the skin before applying make up to your face.

Dosage of Mirvaso

Mirvaso is usually only applied once per day.

The gel contains 3.3 milligrams of brimonidine per gram.

Are there any Side Effects?

Like all medications, Mirvaso can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Redness of the skin
• Itching
• Flushing
• A burning sensation.

These side effects are usually mild and are likely to settle down, but if they persist or become troublesome you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

Serious allergic reactions happen very rarely. If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip swelling or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Mirvaso Warnings

Mirvaso may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your prescriber if you:

• Have ever had an allergic reaction to a medication
• Have an open wound or severely irritated skin
• Have heart or blood vessel disease
• Have alcohol dependency or regularly drink heavily
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Your prescriber can then advise whether Mirvaso is a suitable medication for you.

Some medications can interact with Mirvaso. You may be advised that Mirvaso will not suit you if you already take:

• Certain antidepressants
• An antibiotic medication
• Medications for high blood pressure
• Opiates or barbiturates
• Chlorpromazine.