Have you ever had acne on your face and tried various things but it didn't seem to get better? At that time, when you went to see a doctor, he or she would probably prescribe you a solution or cream containing a medicine called Erythromycin. Many people use this medicine, but they don't know much about it. So today, let's talk about what this medicine is, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What is this Erythromycin?
Simply put, Erythromycin is an antibiotic. That is, a medicine that can kill bacteria. The main reason for acne is the bacterial infection of the oil glands in our skin. So this medicine controls those bacteria and reduces acne. It can come in the form of a liquid, gel, or cream. This medicine is sometimes prescribed by doctors for other skin infections.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it is very important to inform you of some facts about your health condition. Because that information will determine whether this medication is suitable for you or not.
- Bowel problems: Tell us if you have had a bowel infection before, especially a condition like colitis.
- Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Erythromycin or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to tell your doctor.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, be sure to inform her about that as well.
It is very important for your own safety to talk to the doctor about these things without hiding them.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, you need to use it correctly.
1. For topical use only: This is a topical medication. Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
3. Do not let it get into your eyes: This medicine is very harmful to the eyes. Therefore, be very careful when applying it around the eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.
4. The right amount: As the doctor said, apply a thin film only to the areas where the acne is. Applying too much will not heal it quickly, and may even be harmful to the skin.
5. On time: Make it a habit to take your medicine at the same time every day. If your doctor tells you to take it twice a day, keep it in the morning and at night.
6. Use the medicine for the prescribed period: This is a mistake that many people make. They stop taking the medicine when their acne has reduced a little. Don't do that. Use the medicine for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor. Otherwise, the acne may increase again.
What to do if you overdose ?
Since this is a topical medication, the chance of an overdose is low. However, if someone accidentally drinks this or if they experience problems after using too much, go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
This medicine is for you only. Do not give your medicine to a friend or family member who has acne. Not everyone's skin is the same, and it may be harmful to them.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as directed. Never take a double dose.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
When you are using this medicine, some other medicines may cause problems. So tell your doctor about all the medicines you are using (including other antibiotics, vitamins, and herbal medicines). Especially:
- Other antibiotics
- Topical corticosteroids - for example, dexamethasone and hydrocortisone.
It's also a good idea to talk to your doctor about other skin care products and soaps you use.
Things to be careful about when using
- Be patient: This medicine will not cure acne overnight. It may take a few weeks or a month to see results. So be patient and continue using it.
- Other cosmetics: Do not use other products that dry out the skin (e.g., toners containing alcohol, abrasive cleansers) while applying this medication. Also, unless your doctor advises you to, do not apply other acne medications to the areas where you are applying this medication. Doing so may cause the skin to become excessively dry, red, and inflamed.
- Diarrhea: Although rare, antibiotics can cause severe diarrhea. If you have diarrhea for more than two days, if it becomes watery, and if it is severe, see a doctor immediately. Do not take over-the-counter medications.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. But not everyone gets them. Let's take a look at the main side effects.
| Side Effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat. |
| Severe diarrhea | Severe watery diarrhea, fever. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but should be reported to the doctor if they persist) | |
| Minor skin changes | Slight redness, dryness, slight burning or itching of the skin at the application site. |
| Eye strain | Eye redness or slight burning (if the medicine is applied close to the eye). |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children: Keep the medicine bottle or tube out of the reach of children and pets.
- Room temperature: Store at normal room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat or cold.
- Close tightly: When finished using, close the bottle cap or tube cap tightly.
- After expiration: Throw away the medicine as soon as it passes its expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- Erythromycin is a topical antibiotic used for acne. Do not take this.
- Before taking the medicine , be sure to tell your doctor about your other illnesses, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- Even if your acne has reduced slightly, use the medication for the full period prescribed by your doctor.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing) or severe diarrhea.
- This medicine is for you only . Do not share it with others.
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