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How does erythromycin lotion work?

Erythromycin lotion works by reducing the numbers of the skin bacteria (cutibacterium acnes) which are associated with acne.

Erythromycin is one of the macrolide group of antibiotics. Other examples of macrolides are clarithromycin and azithromycin. It also contains zinc which helps to reduce the build up of antibiotic resistance and encourages skin healing.

Who is erythromycin lotion for?

Erythromycin lotion works especially well on the whiteheads of mild acne. It is recommended at Step 3 of the Dr Fox acne treatment plan. Erythromycin lotion is suitable for all ages but Dr Fox supplies to over 18s only.

Who should not use erythromycin lotion

Erythromycin lotion contains the very safe antibiotic erythromycin so most people can use it. The exception being allergy to erythromycin or other similar antibiotics (see below).

Do not use on cuts, grazes, sunburn, or eczema.

Do not use at the same time as other antibiotics to treat acne.

How to use erythromycin lotion

Full instructions are listed in the manufacturer's patient information leaflet.

Wash and dry the acne affected area. Apply erythromycin lotion twice daily using the applicator pad attached to the bottle. Apply thinly, washing off any excess or any solution in contact with the eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.

Allow erythromycin lotion to dry before applying makeup.

It may take a few weeks of use, and up to 8 weeks for best results. If acne gets worse, or there is no improvement after 8 weeks, stop erythromycin lotion and consult a doctor.

Erythromycin lotion should be stopped after 10-12 weeks as the acne bacteria may develop resistance to the antibiotic if used more frequently. It can be restarted after a 6 month break if the acne has returned.

Erythromycin lotion side effects and cautions

Erythromycin lotion does not usually cause side effects.

Erythromycin lotion should not be used if there is known allergy to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics, e.g. clindamycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin.

If an allergic reaction is suspected, stop use and consult a doctor.

Erythromycin lotion can be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women, but women who are breastfeeding should not apply the lotion to the chest area.

Further information is available in the manufacturer's patient information leaflet.

Other acne treatments

A range of acne treatments are available from Dr Fox.

Peeling and anti-inflammatory topical preparations, such as Differin and Epiduo can be used at the same time with erythromycin lotion, although this increases the chances of localised side effects, such as skin irritation. If using a peeling/anti-inflammatory acne treatment as well, use it first and allow it to dry before applying erythromycin lotion.

Other antibiotics used to treat acne are clindamycin found in Duac topical preparation, and lymecycline, other tetracyclines, and clarithromycin, taken as tablets or capsules.

Some women find that combined contraceptive pills can improve acne.

People with severe acne including scarring, may benefit from seeing a dermatologist to consider Roaccutane (isotretinoin) tablet treatment.

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