Generic
Benzoyl Peroxide 5% + Erythromycin 3%
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Benzoyl Peroxide 5% + Erythromycin 3% Topical is a combination medicine used for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Benzoyl Peroxide has keratolytic and antimicrobial properties, while Erythromycin stops bacterial protein synthesis. Together, they destroy acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) and help remove dead skin cells. It should be applied twice daily (morning and evening) to affected areas after cleaning and drying the skin. In Bangladesh, it is available under various brand names.
Description
Benzoyl Peroxide 5% + Erythromycin 3% Topical is a dual-action medicine used for acne vulgaris. Benzoyl Peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity attributed to its oxidative property. It is active against S.epidermidis and P.acne. Erythromycin inhibits protein synthesis by irreversibly binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking transpeptidation or translocation reactions, resulting in stunted cell growth. Apply topically to affected areas after thoroughly washing and drying the skin.
Indications
Used for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Therapeutic class
Topical Antibiotic + Topical Keratolytic Agent
Pharmacology
Benzoyl Peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity attributed to its oxidative property. It is active against S.epidermidis and P.acne. Erythromycin inhibits protein synthesis by irreversibly binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking transpeptidation or translocation reactions, resulting in stunted cell growth.
Mechanism of action
Benzoyl peroxide has mild keratolytic effect and antimicrobial activity which is attributed to its oxidative property. It is active against S.epidermidis and P.acne. Erythromycin inhibits protein synthesis by irreversibly binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit thus blocking the transpeptidation or translocation reactions of susceptible organisms resulting in stunted cell growth.
Dosage
Adult Dose: Adult: Topical Acne: Apply topically BID (morning and evening). Child Dose: 12 years: Apply topically BID (morning and evening)
Administration
Apply topically to affected areas after skin is thoroughly washed and patted dry.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply extra.
Side effects
1-10% Dry skin (5-7.6%),Application site reaction (stinging, erythema, burning) (0.8-2.5%),Blepharitis (1.7%),Pruritus (1.7-2.5%),Photosensitivity (1.3%) <1% Skin peeling (<0.5%)
Precautions & warnings
Apply carefully near the eyes, mouth, neck and other mucous membranes as well as other sensitive areas. Discontinue if severe irritation develops. This medication should not be used for any disorder other than that for which it was prescribed. Topical gel may bleach hair or colored fabric. Concomitant topical acne therapy may result in cumulative irritation, especially with peeling, desquamating, or abrasive agents. If superinfection occurs, discontinue use and take appropriate measures.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Benzoyl Peroxide, Erythromycin, or any component.
Drug interactions
Benzoyl Peroxide: PABA sunscreens may transiently discolor fabric. Erythromycin: Potentially Fatal: QT prolongation, cardiac arrhythmias, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, torsades de pointes with cisapride, pimozide, astemizole or terfenadine. Acute ergot toxicity with ergotamine and dihydroergotamine.
Food interactions
This medicine is for topical application, so there are no food interactions. However, alcohol consumption may increase skin irritation.
Use in pregnancy
There are no well-controlled trials in pregnant women with this therapy. It is not known whether this therapy can cause fetal harm or affect reproductive capacity. This therapy should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed (Pregnancy Category: C). Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted
Use in lactation
It is not known whether this drug combination is excreted in human milk after topical application. However, erythromycin is excreted in human milk following oral and parenteral administration. Use with caution in nursing women.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 12 years. Adult dosage applies for those over 12 years.
Overdose effects
Topical overdose may cause excessive skin irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling. If you apply too much, wash the skin thoroughly and contact a doctor.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.