erythromycin
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.
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.
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What are the side effects of Erythromycin (Erygel)?
Common Side Effects
- Burning sensation (25%)
- Skin peeling
- Dry skin
Other Side Effects
- Itchy skin
- Skin redness
- Oily skin
- Tender skin
Serious Side Effects
- 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 of Erythromycin (Erygel)
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
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 for Erythromycin (Erygel)
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.
Frequently asked questions about Erythromycin (Erygel)
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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.
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.
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.
Erythromycin (Erygel) dosage forms
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 between Erythromycin (Erygel) and other drugs
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.
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