Erythromycin

What is Erythromycin?

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It’s often prescribed to treat chest and lung infections, but it’s also effective against skin conditions like acne, folliculitis and rosacea. Erythromycin has antibacterial properties and helps bring down the inflammatory response and lets your skin heal. ^[1]

The antibiotic effects of Erythromycin stop bacteria from growing in clogged pores, allowing spots to disappear. Rosacea can mimic acne, in that there may be pimples across your face, but its main symptom is redness from blood vessels that may burst. It’s also caused by inflammation. Erythromycin can help alleviate your symptoms and heal your skin.

Erythromycin is used off-label for rosacea and folliculitis. ‘Off-label’ means using a medication for a purpose not officially approved by regulatory authorities or mentioned in the drug’s labelling. Still, there is plenty of evidence to support its effectiveness in treating these conditions, so this practice is relatively common.

How does Erythromycin work?

Erythromycin interrupts protein production in bacterial cells. This mechanism keeps the bacteria from multiplying and, in high enough doses, it kills them. This stops bacteria from growing on your skin and brings down the inflammatory response causing your skin condition.

When you take Erythromycin tablets, it’s quickly absorbed into your bloodstream and starts its effects across your body, including your skin and hair follicles. It reaches peak concentration in your body around four hours after taking it. ^[1]

What doses of Erythromycin are there?

Erythromycin tablets come in two different doses: 250 mg and 500 mg. You will usually take two 250mg tablets twice daily until your course is finished. It’s important to finish your treatment, even if your skin is looking better.

Erythromycin also comes as a powder for other infections, and as a topical treatment for acne when mixed with other active ingredients. Talk to our clinician about your symptoms and we can help you find the right form and dose for you.

How to use Erythromycin

Taking Erythromycin is simple and easy. Swallow your tablet whole with water. Don’t crush, chew, or otherwise tamper with your medication, as that can reduce how effective it is. It’s best to take it right before you eat, or with your meal. ^[1]

Make sure you take Erythromycin at the appropriate time. Taking it late or missing doses can prevent it from treating your infection successfully. Always follow your clinician’s advice on how to take Erythromycin tablets and ask if you have any questions.

How long does it take Erythromycin to work?

Erythromycin starts working in your system really quickly. But it may take a few weeks or months to see the full results. People often take Erythromycin for weeks or months to see the full benefits on their skin.

If it’s been a few weeks and your acne or folliculitis hasn’t improved, or it’s got worse, talk to your clinician. If you’re using our service, just log into your account and send us a message. Our clinical team might ask you to upload a picture of your skin and can look at alternative treatments for you.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Erythromycin?

Taking Erythromycin as prescribed is very important. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue taking it as scheduled. Never double up on your dose to make up for a missed one.

Taking too much Erythromycin doesn’t usually lead to any severe complications. It may increase the likelihood of unpleasant side effects like diarrhoea and stomach discomfort, but it’s not normally a threat to your health. If you’re concerned about taking too much Erythromycin, reach out to your clinician for guidance. Don’t drink grapefruit juice whilst taking it. Grapefruit can increase the amount of erythromycin in your body, which increases your chances of side effects. ^[1]