Erythromycin Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 25, 2024.

Usual Adult Dose for Acne

Gel: Apply a thin film to the affected area(s) once to 2 times a day

Pledgets/swabs, topical solution: Apply to the affected area(s) 2 times a day

Comments:

• The affected area should be thoroughly washed and patted dry before application.
• Gel formulations should be spread over the skin, rather than rubbed in.
• Pledgets/swabs and topical solution may be used to treat acne on the back, chest, face, neck, and shoulders.
• Additional pledgets/swabs may be used, if needed; pledgets should be used once and discarded.
• Patients should be reassessed for continued use after 6 to 8 weeks; treatment should be discontinued if the condition worsens or if improvement is not observed after 6 to 8 weeks.

Use: Topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dose Adjustments

Topical side effects:

• Gel: Treatment should be discontinued in patients with worsening signs/symptoms.
• Pledgets/swabs, topical solution: The frequency of applications may be reduced.

Precautions

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

• Hypersensitivity to the active component or to any of the ingredients

Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug is for topical use only, and should be used with caution around mucous membranes and disrupted skin (e.g., abrasions, cuts, eczema, sunburns).
• Containers should be kept tightly closed when not in use.
• Pledget formulations: Once used, the pledget should be properly discarded.

Storage requirements:

• Gel: Keep in original bottle to protect from flames and heat.
• Pledgets: Keep container tightly closed when not in use.

General:

• Safety and efficacy directly comparing once a day and 2 times a day dosing have not been established.

Patient advice:

• Patients should be instructed to wash the affected area with a mild, non-medicated soap and pat the area dry before application. Patients should be told to avoid washing the area too frequently or scrubbing the skin too hard.
• Patients should be told to avoid contact with other topical drugs to decrease the risk of skin irritation.
• Patients should be instructed to report signs/symptoms of Clostridium difficile (e.g., watery/bloody stools, stomach cramps, fever), for up to 2 months after stopping treatment.
• Advise patients to speak to their healthcare provider if they become pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer