Acne is a common problem that affects many people of all ages, especially young people. Sometimes, the doctor will prescribe a medication called erythromycin to be applied to the skin. This medication can come in the form of a liquid, a cream, or a small pad (pledget) soaked in the medication. So, let's talk about this in a little more detail and simply today.
What exactly is Erythromycin?
Simply put, erythromycin is an antibiotic, which means it is a type of antibiotic . It works by controlling and killing the bacteria that cause acne on your skin. As this bacteria decreases, the redness, swelling, and pain caused by acne gradually decrease.
The most important thing is that it targets bacteria, which is one of the primary factors that causes acne.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication, there are a few things you should be aware of. Be sure to mention these, as they are very important for your safety.
- Tell us if you have ever had an allergic reaction to erythromycin or any other medicine, food, or dye .
- If you have intestinal conditions, especially colitis .
- If you are pregnant, or expecting a baby soon .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medication, it is essential to use it correctly.
1. For topical use only: This is for topical use only . Do not ingest or ingest in any other way for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
3. Be careful with your eyes, nose, and mouth: Do not let the medicine get into your eyes, inside your nose, or in your mouth. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water for several minutes.
4. Apply it correctly: Apply a thin layer only to the areas with acne, as directed by your doctor. Applying too much can dry out and cause redness.
5. Use it at the right time: Try to use it at the same time every day, no matter how many times a day and at what time you are told to use it.
6. Use the full course: This is a mistake that many people make. Even if you think your acne has cleared up in two or three days, use the medicine for the full course that your doctor prescribed. If you don't, the bacteria may not be completely gone and acne may return.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the next scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if I accidentally overdose on medicine?
If you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if someone, such as a small child, has taken it by mouth, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
- Be patient: This medicine may take a few weeks or a month or two to see results, so be patient and continue using it.
- Other skin products: While using this medication, avoid using other products that can dry out your skin (e.g., cleansers with alcohol, harsh scrubs). If you are using other acne medications, ask your doctor if they are compatible with each other.
- Diarrhea: Although rare, some antibiotics can cause diarrhea. If you have severe, watery diarrhea that lasts more than two days while taking this medicine, do not take over-the-counter medications. Call your doctor right away.
- Visit your doctor: During treatment, visit your doctor on the days that he or she tells you to and let them know how you are doing. Tell them if your symptoms don't go away or get worse.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, erythromycin can cause some side effects. While most of these are minor, there are some things to be aware of.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Severe diarrhea | Severe watery diarrhea with fever. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Minor skin changes | Slight redness, dryness, mild burning, or itching of the skin where the medicine is applied. (These usually subside within a few days.) |
| Changes in the eyes | Eye redness or slight burning (may occur if the medicine gets too close to the eye). |
Take-Home Message
- Erythromycin is a topical antibiotic that controls acne-causing bacteria.
- This medicine should only be used on the surface of the skin . Be sure to use it for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
- Don't forget to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any allergies you have.
- If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing) or severe diarrhea, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor.
- It takes some time to see results, so be patient and follow the treatment correctly. If you have any problems, talk to your doctor.
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