provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Erythromycin Coupon - Erythromycin 30g of 2% tube of gel

erythromycin

Generic Erygel
Used for Acne
Used for Acne

Erythromycin (Erygel) is an effective topical antibiotic medication used to treat acne. Similar to other topical acne medications, it can cause peeling, burning, and dryness of the skin. It can take up to 8 weeks to see any improvements in your acne.

Last reviewed on July 21, 2021
basics-icon

What is Erythromycin (Erygel)?

What is Erythromycin (Erygel) used for?

  • Acne

How Erythromycin (Erygel) works

Erythromycin (Erygel) is a macrolide antibiotic. It treats your acne by preventing acne-causing bacteria from producing important nutrients they need to survive. It also contains alcohol, which helps to dry out acne-affected areas of skin.

Are you looking for information on oral erythromycin or erythromycin eye ointment instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsErygel, Ery
Drug ClassMacrolide antibiotic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$89.30(save 62.17%)
GoodRx discount
$33.78
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Erythromycin (Erygel)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Burning sensation (25%)
  • Skin peeling
  • Dry skin

Other Side Effects

  • Itchy skin
  • Skin redness
  • Oily skin
  • Tender skin

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reactions
  • Severe diarrhea

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Eye irritation not present before therapy

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Erythromycin (Erygel)

thumbs-up

Pros

A good option when over-the-counter acne treatments aren't working

Helpful if you have oily skin

Safe to use during pregnancy

Available as a lower-cost, generic medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Can take 6 to 8 weeks to start working

Can cause skin irritation, burning, and peeling

Can be harsh if you typically have dry skin

Known to cause bacterial resistance (bacteria that are difficult to kill with antibiotics)

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Erythromycin (Erygel)

pharmacist
  • Erythromycin (Erygel) should only be used on your skin. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, and mouth. Be careful when applying erythromycin (Erygel) to your face, and be sure to only apply it to the affected area.

    • Wash your hands well after using erythromycin (Erygel) to prevent it from getting in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If erythromycin (Erygel) gets in your eyes, rinse them well with water.

      • Wash and dry your face well before applying erythromycin (Erygel).

        • Erythromycin (Erygel) can take up to 8 weeks to start to work. Be patient, and try to stick with it. If you're not seeing improvement after then or if your acne gets worse at any point while you're using this medication, let your provider know.

          • Burning after using erythromycin (Erygel) is common, but if you notice a rash appear, please contact your healthcare provider.

            • Using a moisturizer that is oil-free and doesn't block your pores (non-comedogenic) can help lessen common side effects of erythromycin (Erygel), such as skin dryness and peeling.

              • Don't put erythromycin (Erygel) on cut, scraped, or damaged skin. Doing so raises your risk of side effects.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Erythromycin (Erygel)

                How long does it take erythromycin (Erygel) to work?
                It can take a few weeks for you to see improvements in your acne. If your acne doesn't look any better after 6 to 8 weeks or if it gets worse, talk to your provider. You might need a different medication to treat your acne.
                Can I use moisturizer after applying erythromycin (Erygel)?
                You should wait until erythromycin (Erygel) has completely dried and absorbed into your skin before applying moisturizer. When choosing a moisturizer, make sure to choose one that is oil-free and will not clog your pores.
                Do you have to refrigerate erythromycin (Erygel)?
                No, erythromycin (Erygel) should be kept at room temperature and in its original container.
                Can I use erythromycin (Erygel) if I'm pregnant?
                Erythromycin (Erygel) is considered to be a safe medication to use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant, it's important to always speak with your provider first about whether you should continue to use any of your medications.
                Can I use other topical acne medications in combination with erythromycin (Erygel)?
                Erythromycin (Erygel) shouldn't be used with any other topical acne medications, unless your provider tells you to do so. Combining erythromycin (Erygel) with other topical acne treatments can raise the risk of skin irritation. Ask your provider if using multiple topical acne medications is right for you.
                GoodRxEducationalIcon

                How to save using GoodRx

                Compare Prices
                1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                Select your free coupon
                2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                Show coupon to your pharmacist
                3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                Get free couponLearn more
                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Erythromycin (Erygel)?

                Erythromycin (Erygel) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Severe diarrhea

                • Risk factors: History of Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea | History of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis | History of local inflammation of the digestive tract

                  Like all antibiotics, erythromycin (Erygel) can cause diarrhea, because it gets rid of the good bacteria in your gut. However, this is very rare with topical medications. In rare cases, this diarrhea is caused by a bacteria called Clostridioides difficile (commonly called C. diff) that is usually kept under control by your gut bacteria. C. diff diarrhea is very contagious and can lead to life-threatening dehydration. If you have C. diff, be sure to wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds frequently and try to use a different bathroom from anyone living with you until you are better. Taking probiotic supplements while using erythromycin (Erygel) might help prevent this problem. Having bowel problems, like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, raises your risk of C. diff diarrhea while using antibiotics. Tell your provider if you have inflammatory bowel problems or have ever had severe diarrhea after using antibiotics before.

                  risk-warning

                  Drug-resistant bacteria

                  You should only use erythromycin (Erygel) as prescribed by your provider. Using too much erythromycin (Erygel) or for too long can lead to growth of bacteria that's resistant to many antibiotics (drug-resistant bacteria), which are much harder to treat.

                  dosage

                  Erythromycin (Erygel) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 1 tube of 30g of 2% of Erythromycin (Erygel) is $33.78 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 62.17% off the average retail price of $89.30.
                  tube of gel
                  Tube of gel
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  30g of 2%1 tube$33.78$33.78
                  60g of 2%1 tube$46.10$46.10

                  Typical dosing for Erythromycin (Erygel)

                  Before using the medication, wash your skin with warm water and soap, and pat dry.

                  • Topical gel (Erygel): Gently spread a thin layer of the medication onto the affected area(s) of your skin once or twice a day.

                  • Topical pads (Ery) or topical solution: Apply over the affected area(s) of your skin twice a day (morning and evening).

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Erythromycin (Erygel) and other drugs

                  Erythromycin (Erygel) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Erythromycin (Erygel). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Erythromycin (Erygel) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Erythromycin (Erygel)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Erythromycin (Erygel). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Erythromycin (Erygel)
                  Used for:
                  • Acne

                  $33.78 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Acne

                  $12.39 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Acne

                  $28.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Erythromycin (Erygel)?

                  images

                  Erythromycin (Erygel) images

                  This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Gel.
                  yellow - Erythromycin 2% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is Yellow Tube Of Gel.yellow - Erythromycin 2% Topical Gel
                  colorless - Erythromycin 2% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Gel.colorless - Erythromycin 2% Topical Gel
                  This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Gel.

                  Get savings updates for Erythromycin (Erygel)

                  Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Erythromycin (Erygel) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                  By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                  Browse medications

                  View All

                  Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.