Medications and Drugs
Medical Revising Editor: Jay Marks, M.D.
GENERIC NAME: erythromycin & benzoyl peroxide (gel or pak)
BRAND NAME: Benzamycin
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Benzamycin is a combination of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide and is used for the topical treatment of acne (pimples). Erythromycin is an antibiotic. The exact mechanism by which topical erythromycin reduces pimples is unknown. Erythromycin probably reduces pimples by penetrating into the skin and killing bacteria that contribute to the formation of pimples. Benzoyl peroxide works through several mechanisms. It kills the bacteria and promotes the growth of new skin cells. It also dries the skin. Increased cell growth leads to replacement of the pimples with new skin. Combining erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide is more convenient than using them separately.
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Benzamycin is dispensed in amounts of 46.6 gm, each gram containing 30 mg of erythromycin and 50 mg of benzoyl peroxide gel. The erythromycin powder is mixed with ethyl alcohol and then added to the benzoyl peroxide gel before it is dispensed to the patient. Benzamycin also is available as Benzamycin Pak, 60 individual-use packets containing both erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide as gels that are physically separated within the packet. Just prior to use, the packet is opened, and the gels are mixed.
STORAGE: Prior to mixing the erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide together, Benzamycin should be stored at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F). After mixing, Benzamycin should be stored in the refrigerator.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Benzamycin is used for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris (pimples).
DOSING: The affected areas are washed and dried, and a thin layer of gel is applied once or twice a day. The eyes, lips and nose should be avoided. Results should be seen within 4 to 6 weeks. This product is for external use only.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Excessive skin irritation may occur if
Benzamycin is used with other acne medications.
PREGNANCY: Safety of Benzamycin when used during pregnancy has not been established; however, the risk of side effects on the fetus is low because very little drug is absorbed through the skin.
NURSING MOTHERS: The possibility that infants will experience adverse effects due to the use of
Benzamycin by a nursing mother is very low since little drug is absorbed through the skin.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects are skin irritation, redness, dryness and itching. Most of these side effects lessen with continued use. If they are bothersome, decreasing the frequency of application could be helpful.
Benzamycin may increase sensitivity to the sun leading to sunburns. Excessive sun exposure should be avoided and sunscreen should be used over treated areas if sun exposure cannot be avoided.
Benzamycin should not be applied to sunburned skin, cuts, eyes, nose or lips.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 1/12/2003
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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