Category : ANTIBIOTICS

Name : ERYTHROMYCIN     Type & Dosage : Sol. ; 4% Package : 1

Pharmacologic Category Antiacne agent (topical) Mechanism Of Action Topical erythromycin is thought to suppress the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (Corynebacterium acnes) , an anaerobe found in sebaceous glands and follicles . P. acnes produces proteases , hyaluronidases , lipases , and chemotactic factors , all of which can produce inflammatory components or inflammation directly. Indications Acne vulgaris (treatment) –Topical erythromycin is indicated in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris . It may be effective in grades II and III acne , which are characterized by inflammatory lesions such as papules and pustules . Topical antibacterials are not generally considered to be as effective as systemic antibacterials in the treatment of acne , especially more severe inflammatory acne . Topical erythromycin is not effective in deep cystic lesions or in noninflammatory lesions. Side Adverse Effects Dry or scaly skin ; Irritation ; Itching ; Stinging or burning feeling ; Peeling ; Redness Contraindications Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or any component of the formulation. Pregnancy FDA pregnancy category C. Erythromycin crosses the placenta , although fetal serum concentrations are generally low . Adequate and well – controlled studies in humans have not been done. Breast Feeding It is not known whether erythromycin , applied topically , is distributed into breast milk. Erythromycin , given systemically , is distributed into breast milk. However , problems in humans have not been documented. Drug Interactions Combinations containing any of the following medications , depending on the amount present , may also interact with this medication : Abrasive or medicated soap or cleansers; Acne preparations or preparations containing a peeling agent such as : Benzoyl peroxide , Resorcinol , Salicylic acid , Sulfur , Tretinoin ; Topical alcohol – containing preparations such as : After – shave lotions , Astringents , Perfumed toiletries , Shaving creams or lotions ; Cosmetics or soap with a strong drying effect; Isotretinoin ; Medicated cosmetics or '' cover – ups " . Concurrent use with erythromycin topical gel and solution may cause a cumulative irritant or drying effect , especially with the application of peeling , desquamating , or abrasive agent , resulting in excessive irritation of the skin. Administration And Dosage Usual adult and adolescent dose: Acne vulgaris –Topical , to the skin , two times a day , morning and evening. Usual pediatric dose: Dosage has not been established. How Supplied Topical gel, 30 gram, contains 2% erythromycin Topical solution, contains 2% erythromycin Storage Store below 30°C. Protect from freezing. Keep from heat and flame. References USP DI, 2004 Up To Date, Vol. 13.1 (2005) Martindale, The Complete Drug Reference, 33 rd edition 2002