Erythromycin Solution

Erythromycin solution is an antibiotic used to treat acne (pimples) and some bacterial skin infections. It helps to reduce the number of pimples. This medicine stops the bacteria from growing, which helps to resolve your symptoms.

Erythromycin solution is meant for external use only. It should be applied only to the affected area of the skin as per the dosage and schedule prescribed by your doctor. In order to get the most benefit, apply it regularly and preferably at a fixed time each day.

Erythromycin solution is an antibiotic which stops the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It does so by preventing synthesis of essential proteins required by these bacteria to carry out vital functions.

• Acne (Acne Vulgaris): Used for topical treatment of acne.

Macrolides, Topical antibiotics for Acne

Macrolide Antibiotic (Topical)

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria. It stops bacterial growth and prevents the spread of infection. It is effective against Propionibacterium acnes, which causes 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.

Adult Dose (Topical):

• Acne: Apply onto affected areas 1-2 times daily. Discontinue if condition worsens or no improvement after 6-8 weeks. Max duration: 6 months.

Child Dose: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years. Over 12 years: Adult dose applies.

Use this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry, unbroken skin.

If you miss a dose of Erythromycin solution, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Skin peeling
• Erythema (redness)
• Dry skin
• Irritation
• Itching
• Stinging and burning sensation
• Skin tenderness
• Contact sensitization

Potentially Fatal: Hepatotoxicity, cholestatic jaundice, raised serum transaminases, eosinophilia.

Precautions:

• For external use only.
• Keep away from eyes, nose, mouth and other mucous membranes.
• Prescribed for treatment of severe acne. May take long to improve; be patient and use every day.
• Wash skin with mild cleanser and pat dry before applying.
• Inform doctor if burning, stinging or irritation persists.
• Stop using and consult doctor if treated area becomes more irritated and infected.
• Prolonged or repeated use may result in bacterial or fungal overgrowth.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity
• Porphyria
• Hepatic impairment
• Pregnancy

Drug Interactions:

• Clindamycin: Interacts with Erythromycin.
• HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (simvastatin): Rhabdomyolysis.
• Colchicine: Increased risk of toxicity.
• Theophylline: Decreased concentration; Cimetidine: Increased concentration.
• Cisapride, Pimozide, Astemizole, Terfenadine: QT prolongation, cardiac arrhythmias (Potentially Fatal).

Food Interactions: No interaction found/established as this is a topical preparation.

Use in Pregnancy: Generally considered safe during pregnancy with doctor's advice. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects; human studies are limited.

Use in Lactation: Safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into breastmilk in significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years. Over 12 years: Adult dose applies.

Geriatric Use: No specific information available. Adult dose applies.

Renal Impairment: No specific precautions necessary due to topical use.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver disease (contraindication listed).

Overdose: Limited information on topical overdose. Excessive use may cause skin irritation.

Storage: Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Erythromycin Solution