Benzoyl Peroxide / Erythromycin Topical Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 1, 2024.
Applies to benzoyl peroxide/erythromycin topical: topical gel/jelly.
Precautions
It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it.
This medicine may cause diarrhea, and in some cases it can be severe. Do not take any medicine to treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor. Diarrhea medicines may make the diarrhea worse or make it last longer. If you have any questions about this or if mild diarrhea continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. You may need to wear protective clothing, such as a hat.
If you develop severe swelling, shortness of breath, or any allergic reaction to this medicine, stop using the medicine and check with your doctor right away.
If your acne does not improve within 3 to 4 weeks, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor. However, treatment of acne may take up to 8 to 12 weeks before you see full improvement.
If your doctor has ordered another medicine to be applied to the skin along with this medicine, it is best to apply the second medicine at least 1 hour after you apply the first medicine. This may help keep your skin from becoming too irritated. Also, if the medicines are used too close together, they may not work properly.
Mild stinging or burning of the skin may be expected after this medicine is applied. These effects may last up to a few minutes or more. If irritation continues, check with your doctor. You may have to use the medicine less often. Follow your doctor's directions.
You may continue to use cosmetics (make-up) while you are using this medicine for acne. However, it is best to use only ``oil-free'' cosmetics. Also, it is best not to use cosmetics too heavily or too often. They may make your acne worse. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.
Do not use any other medicines on the treated skin areas without asking your doctor. Avoid using any skin care products that can dry or irritate your skin. These include skin peeling agents.
Do not apply the medicine to your hair or to any colored fabric. This medicine may cause bleaching.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, benzoyl peroxide/erythromycin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin topical:
Less common or rare side effects
- burning, blistering, crusting, itching, severe redness, or swelling of the skin
- dryness or peeling of the skin
- eye irritation
- feeling of warmth, mild stinging, or redness of the skin
- increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
- oiliness or tenderness of the skin
- painful irritation of the skin
- redness or other discoloration of the skin
- redness, swelling, or itching of the eyelid
- severe sunburn
- skin rash
- swelling of the eyes, face, and nose
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For healthcare professionals
Applies to benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin topical: topical gel.
Dermatologic adverse events
- Common (1% to 10%): Dry skin, pruritus, photosensitivity reaction (sunburn, stinging with sun exposure), dryness, urticarial reaction
- Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Peeling
- Frequency not reported: Skin discoloration, skin oiliness, tenderness of the skin, transient drying, erythema, burning, desquamation
Erythromycin topical:
- Frequency not reported: Generalized urticarial reaction[Ref]
Local
- Common (1% to 10%): Application site reaction (stinging, erythema, burning)
- Frequency not reported: Irritation of the skin (including peeling, itching, burning sensation, erythema, inflammation of the face/eyes/nose, irritation of the eyes)[Ref]
Ocular
- Common (1% to 10%): Blepharitis[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
Benzoyl peroxide topical:
- Frequency not reported: Allergic sensitization
References
1. (2022) "Product Information. Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide-erythromycin topical)." Apothecon Inc
2. (2019) "Product Information. Aktipak (benzoyl peroxide-erythromycin topical)." Cutanea Life Sciences, Inc
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Further information
Benzoyl peroxide/erythromycin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.