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About topical erythromycin
| Type of medicine | Antibacterial |
| Used for | Acne (spots) |
| Also called | Stiemycin® Zineryt® (Erythromycin with zinc acetate) |
| Available as | Topical solution |
Erythromycin is used to treat bacterial infections. When used topically (which means that it is applied to the skin) it is used to treat acne. It works by killing the bacteria responsible for causing acne. Topical erythromycin is sometimes combined with zinc to aid wound healing.
Before using topical erythromycin
Before using topical erythromycin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this, any other medicine or topical preparation.
How to use topical erythromycin
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Apply topical erythromycin to the whole of the affected area twice daily after washing with soap and water.
- Avoid getting topical erythromycin into your eyes and the insides of your mouth and nose. If this happens, rinse the affected area immediately with plenty of water.
Getting the most from your treatment
- You may have to use topical erythromycin for six to eight weeks before you notice an improvement. During your treatment your doctor may ask you to use another skin preparation for a short while. This is because erythromycin may stop working if you use it continually without a break.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
- If your condition does not improve or if it gets worse, let your doctor know.
Can topical erythromycin cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Rare side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 1000 people who use this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Skin irritation such as redness, dry skin, itching and burning sensation | This is usually mild and does not require discontinuing treatment. If it continues, speak with your doctor |
| Diarrhoea or abdominal cramps | If this continues or is severe, speak with your doctor |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store topical erythromycin
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
- Zineryt® solution should only be used for 8 weeks after it is made up. Check when your supply will expire and make sure you get a new prescription before your current bottle expires.
Important information about all medicines
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Further reading & references
- British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
- Manufacturer's PIL, Zineryt®; Manufacturer's PIL, Zineryt®, Astellas Pharma Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated November 2009.
| Original Author: Helen Allen | Current Version: Hui Teoh | |
| Last Checked: 07/06/2011 | Document ID: 3278 Version: 23 | © EMIS |
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.