Rosacea treatment Mirvaso
What is Mirvaso?
Mirvaso is a prescription-only gel commonly used to treat rosacea, a skin condition. Applied to the affected skin areas, it works by constricting blood vessels to reduce skin redness (erythema). The active component in Mirvaso gel is brimonidine, a medication utilised in rosacea treatment when applied in topical form (directly onto the skin).
What is Mirvaso used to treat?
Mirvaso is used to treat the persistent facial redness (erythema) caused by rosacea, a chronic skin condition that affects the blood vessels and causes flushing and redness on the face.
Who can and cannot use Mirvaso?
Before using Mirvaso, consult your GP if you belong to any of the following categories:
patients taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor therapy or those on tricyclic or tetracycline antidepressants
individuals with heart or circulation issues
those experiencing reduced blood flow to the hands, feet, or skin
individuals diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome (a chronic autoimmune disease affecting moisture-producing glands
those with kidney or liver problems, past or present
pregnant or breastfeeding women
patients under the age of 18
individuals allergic to the active ingredient or any excipients
Discontinue treatment in the case of a severe reaction or contact allergy to the product.
Ensure not to exceed the recommended daily dosage.
How often is Mirvaso applied?
Mirvaso is typically applied once daily to the affected areas of the face.
Mirvaso gel is used on affected areas of the skin, avoiding sensitive areas such as the eyes, lips and inside the nose.
Initiate usage with a small amount applied to a single area of your skin for the first week to assess any reactions. Following this trial period, gradually increase the amount as needed.
Never use more than 5 pea sized amounts of the Mirvaso in a day.
You should use Mirvaso first, and allow it to dry, before applying any other products.
Mirvaso gel should be used daily for best results and can work in as little as 30 minutes, lasting up to 12 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Mirvaso, like all medications, can induce side effects, although they may not affect everyone.
Common side effects include flushing, skin whitening (pallor) at the application site, skin redness, a burning sensation, or itching.
Uncommon side effects include acne, dry mouth, cold sensation in hands and feet, heat sensation, headache, nasal congestion, skin rash, skin pain or discomfort, skin irritation or inflammation, dry skin, warm skin sensation, tingling or pins and needles sensation, swelling of the eyelid, facial swelling, urticaria (hives), worsening of rosacea, and dizziness.
Rare side effects involve angioedema (a severe allergic reaction typically causing swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue). In case of such reactions, discontinue treatment.
Additionally, hypotension (decreased blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate) are rare occurrences.
Always read the patient information leaflet before taking any medication. The patient information leaflet for Mirvaso 3mg/g can be found here.
Mirvaso doesn’t have any special storage requirements, although the usual precautions should be taken. Keep out of sight and reach of children, and store in a dry place below 30°C.
Mirvaso is available as a topical gel for application to the affected areas of the face.