Drug Detail:Erythromycin topical (Erythromycin topical [ ee-rith-roe-mye-sin ])
Drug Class: Topical acne agents Topical antibiotics
Usual Adult Dose for Acne
Gel: Apply a thin film to the affected area(s) once to 2 times a day
Pledgets/swabs, topical solution: Apply to the affected area(s) 2 times a day
Comments:
- The affected area should be thoroughly washed and patted dry before application.
- Gel formulations should be spread over the skin, rather than rubbed in.
- Pledgets/swabs and topical solution may be used to treat acne on the back, chest, face, neck, and shoulders.
- Additional pledgets/swabs may be used, if needed; pledgets should be used once and discarded.
- Patients should be reassessed for continued use after 6 to 8 weeks; treatment should be discontinued if the condition worsens or if improvement is not observed after 6 to 8 weeks.
Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris
Renal Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Liver Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Dose Adjustments
Topical side effects:
- Gel: Treatment should be discontinued in patients with worsening signs/symptoms.
- Pledgets/swabs, topical solution: The frequency of applications may be reduced.
Precautions
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- Hypersensitivity to the active component or to any of the ingredients
Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients.
Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.
Dialysis
Data not available
Other Comments
Administration advice:
- This drug is for topical use only, and should be used with caution around mucous membranes and disrupted skin (e.g., abrasions, cuts, eczema, sunburns).
- Containers should be kept tightly closed when not in use.
- Pledget formulations: Once used, the pledget should be properly discarded.
Storage requirements:
- Gel: Keep in original bottle to protect from flames and heat.
- Pledgets: Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
General:
- Safety and efficacy directly comparing once a day and 2 times a day dosing have not been established.
Patient advice:
- Patients should be instructed to wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat the area dry before application. Patients should be told to avoid washing the area too frequently or scrubbing the skin too hard.
- Patients should be told to avoid contact with other topical drugs to decrease the risk of skin irritation.
- Patients should be instructed to report signs/symptoms of Clostridium difficile (e.g., watery/bloody stools, stomach cramps, fever), for up to 2 months after stopping treatment.
- Advise patients to speak to their healthcare provider if they become pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.