Antiacne agent (topical) - Probably due to its antibacterial activity.
Topical erythromycin is thought to suppress the growth of Propionibacterium acnes (Corynebacterium acnes), an anaerobe found in sebaceous glands and follicles. P. acnes produces proteases , hyaluronidases ,lipases , and chemotactic factors, alI of which can produce inflammatory components or inflammation directly.

Acne vulgaris (treatment) - It is indicated in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. It may be effective in grades II and III acne, which are characterized by inflammatory lesions such as papules and pustules. Topical antibacterials are not generally considered to be as effective as systemic antibacterials in the treatment of acne, especially more severe inflammatory acne.

Risk - benefit should be considered when the following medical problem exists:
Sensitivity to erythromycin.

Erythromycin crosses the placenta, although fetal serum concentration are generally low. Adequate and well - controlled studies in humans have not been done. FDA Pregnancy Category B.

It is not known whether erythromycin, appIied topically, is distributed into breast milk. However , problems in humans have not been documented.

Combinations containing any of the following medications, depending on the amount present, may also interact with this medication:
Abrasive or medicated soaps or cleansers or acne preparations or preparations containing a peeling agent, such as: Benzoyl peroxide - Resorcinol - Salicylic acid - Sulfur - Tretinoin.
Alcohol - containing preparations, topical, such as: Mer - shave lotions - Astringents - Perfumed toiletries - Shaving creams or lotions.
Cosmetics or soaps with a strong drying effect - Isotretinoin - Medicated cosmetics or "cover - ups".

Those indicating need for medical attention only if they continue or are bothersome. Incidence more frequent: Dry or scaly skin; irritation; itching; stinging or burning feeling. Incidence less frequent: Peeling; redness.

Usual adult and adolescent dose:
Acne vulgaris - Topical, to the skin, two times a day, morning and evening.
Usual pediatric dose:
Dosage has not been established.