Erythromycin/benzoyl peroxide (On the skin)

Introduction

Benzoyl Peroxide (BEN-zoe-il per-OX-ide), Erythromycin (e-rith-roe-MYE-sin)

Treats acne.

Brand Name(s)

Benzamycin Pak, Benzamycin

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Gel/Jelly

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Benzamycin® Pak is available in one foil pouch that has two separated compartments. If you are using this brand, open the pouch and mix the contents in the palm of your hand thoroughly. Apply the product right away after mixing. Do not mix or apply the medicine near an open flame.
• Before applying this medicine, wash your skin gently with warm water and pat it dry. If you have just shaved, you should wait 30 minutes before applying the medicine to prevent stinging or irritation.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any fungus infection on your skin.
• If you have severe diarrhea, ask your doctor before taking any medicine to stop the diarrhea.
• Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
• This medicine can cause irritation. Do not get this medicine into your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• 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.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Do not apply the medicine to your hair or to any colored fabric. This medicine may cause bleaching.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Severe diarrhea or diarrhea that may contain blood.
• Severe skin swelling or blistering.
• Swelling of the face, eyes, or nose.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Discoloration of the skin.
• Dry skin, rash, itching, or peeling skin.
• Eye irritation.
• Redness, tenderness, burning, stinging, or irritation of your skin where the medicine was applied.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Keep the Benzamycin® Pak in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Store the Benzamycin® topical gel in the refrigerator, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed. Throw away any unused medicine after 3 months.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.
• Tell your doctor if you are using any other medicine for the treatment of acne.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any other topical skin treatments such as skin peeling agents.
• Using PABA sunscreen and benzoyl peroxide together may cause your skin to change color. Ask your pharmacist for a sunscreen product that does not contain PABA.