erythromycin topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:   

Action:  

erythromycin topical works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause skin infections. It does this by interfering with the protein synthesis of bacteria, preventing them from multiplying and causing further damage to the skin. 

Spectrum:  

erythromycin topical is primarily effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Corynebacterium species. It is also active against Gram-negative bacteria, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Haemophilus influenzae. However, it is ineffective against all types of bacteria, and other antibiotics may be needed to treat infections caused by resistant strains. Erythromycin topical is commonly used to treat acne, rosacea, and other skin infections. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined 

Erythema 

Skin irritation 

Contact sensitization 

Skin tenderness 

Dryness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

The topical application of erythromycin can lead to antibiotic resistance. The prolonged use of this medication can encourage the growth of non-susceptible bacteria or fungi, which may result in superinfection. If superinfection is detected, alternative therapy should be pursued and erythromycin use should be discontinued.

If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water. The safety and efficacy of erythromycin topical have not been established for pediatric patients under the age of 12. Pregnant women should only use erythromycin topical if it is clearly needed. If any allergic reactions are observed, the medication should be discontinued. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Hypersensitivity: erythromycin topical should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to erythromycin or its components. 

Severe liver disease: erythromycin is metabolized in the liver, so it may not be safe for individuals with severe liver disease or liver failure. 

Use with other medications: erythromycin may interact with certain medications, including warfarin, theophylline, and carbamazepine.  

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:  

erythromycin topical is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before using any medication. 

Children under 12 years old: erythromycin topical is not recommended for children under 12 years old without the advice of a healthcare provider. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

erythromycin is a type of antibiotic medication that is utilized for treating bacterial infections. When used topically, its mechanism of action involves preventing bacterial protein synthesis. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics mechanism of erythromycin topical involves inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and reducing inflammation, ultimately leading to the resolution of acne. 

MOA:  

The mechanism of action of erythromycin topical involves inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, reducing the number of bacteria on the skin, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects, all of which can help to improve acne symptoms.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption:  

erythromycin topical is applied to the skin and is absorbed through the skin. The extent of absorption is low, and only a tiny amount of the drug reaches the systemic circulation. 

Distribution:  

erythromycin topical is distributed throughout the skin layers, but it does not penetrate deeply. The drug does not appear to accumulate in the skin or in other tissues. 

Metabolism:  

erythromycin is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites, primarily by the enzyme CYP3A4. 

Excretion and elimination: 

 erythromycin and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the feces, with a smaller amount excreted in the urine. The elimination half-life of erythromycin is approximately 1.5 hours. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Wash your hands thoroughly before using the medication. 

Clean the affected area with a mild cleanser and pat it dry with a clean towel.  

To treat the affected area(s), use clean hands or a cotton swab to apply a thin layer of the medication, ensuring complete coverage of the affected area.  

Use erythromycin topical as directed by your healthcare provider. Generally, it is applied twice a day, in the morning and evening. 

Do not apply the medication to open wounds or cuts.  

Do not use more of the medication than directed, and do not use it for longer than your healthcare provider recommends.  

If you miss a dose, apply the medication as soon as you remember.   

If you experience any side effects, such as itching, redness, or burning, stop using the medication and contact your healthcare provider. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: erythromycin topical 

Why do we use erythromycin topical?  

erythromycin is an antibiotic that can be used topically to treat skin infections caused by bacteria. It is commonly used to treat acne, which is caused by bacteria clogging the pores of the skin.

erythromycin works by stopping the growth and spread of bacteria, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin. 

erythromycin topical is usually applied directly to the affected area of the skin once or twice a day, depending on the severity of the infection. It may take several weeks of treatment for the full benefits to be seen. 

erythromycin topical is generally considered safe and effective, although some people may experience side effects such as dryness, itching, or redness of the skin.