This product is used to treat moderate acne. It helps to
reduce the number of pimples. This medication is a combination of 2 drugs.
Erythromycin works by stopping the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It
belongs to a class of drugs known as macrolide antibiotics. Benzoyl
peroxide also kills acne-causing bacteria and causes the top layer of skin
to dry and peel off so that new skin can form. This product also contains
alcohol which helps to dry extra oils from the skin.
Read the Instructions for Use if available from your
pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is for use only on the skin. Before
applying, wash the affected areas thoroughly, rinse with warm water, then
gently pat dry. Apply a thin layer of this medication as directed by your
doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and in the
evening).
Wash your hands after using medication. Avoid getting
this medication in your eyes or inside your nose, mouth, or other mucous
membranes. If this occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not mix or apply
medication near an open flame.
Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or colored fabrics
(such as clothing, bedding, towels). Use caution when applying this
medication near the hairline.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not
apply large amounts of this medication, use it more often, or use it for
longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and
your risk of side effects may increase.
Acne usually improves after a few weeks of treatment.
However, it may take 2 to 3 months of continued use to notice the full
benefit of this product. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get
better or if it gets worse.
Mild dryness and mild peeling of the top layer of skin
is expected. Skin irritation, itching, burning, or redness may occur,
especially at the start of treatment as your body adjusts to the
medication. Eye irritation and skin discoloration may also occur. If any of
these effects last or get worse, stop using this product and tell your
doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Rarely, use of this medication for prolonged or repeated
periods may result in other types of skin infections (such as fungal
infections). Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual skin symptoms or
if your condition does not improve.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this product, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to erythromycin or benzoyl peroxide; or to
other macrolide antibiotics (such as azithromycin, clarithromycin); or if
you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive
ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to
your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun.
Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use
sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor
right away if you get sunburned or have skin
blisters/redness.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
A product that may interact with this drug
is:
Other skin products (such as cosmetics, medicated soaps,
after-shave lotions, products containing alcohol) and other acne skin
treatments may increase skin irritation, dryness, and peeling when used
with erythromycin/benzoyl peroxide. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about
what products are best for you, what products to avoid, and ways you can
reduce skin irritation.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
For best results, this medication is often used as part
of a total skin care program. Follow your doctor's
recommendations.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. This
medication is flammable. Keep it away from heat and open flame. This
medication expires 3 months after it was prepared by the pharmacy. Keep all
medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.