A metering pump enables simple fluid metering, has an extended service life, and is of compact construction. The metering pump includes a piston rod in operative connection with a control body which has a circumferential sealing zone, in that the internal circumference of the sealing cylinder radially surrounds the sealing zone. On the piston rod side, a compensating zone, which is at a greater radial distance from the sealing cylinder than the sealing zone, adjoins the sealing zone at least in portions, and in that the control body, after passing beyond the control edge in the actuation direction of the actuator, at least largely severs the fluid connection.