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GENERIC NAME: ERYTHROMYCIN OINTMENT - TOPICAL (eh-rith-row-MY-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Akne-Mycin

USES: This medication is used to treat acne. It helps to reduce the number of pimples. Erythromycin is an antibiotic (macrolide-type). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

HOW TO USE: This medication is for use on the skin only. Clean and dry the affected area as directed. Then apply a thin layer of the medication on the skin and rub in gently, usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands after use.Do not use large amounts or apply this more often or for a longer period than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the risk of side effects may be increased.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day.Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or inside the nose or mouth. If this occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. It may take up to 3 months of regular use before the full benefits of this medication take effect.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause skin irritation, redness, or peeling, especially in the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. Eye irritation may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Rarely, use of this medication may result in other types of skin infections (fungal or other bacterial infections). Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual skin irritation or other symptoms.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin, clarithromycin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other skin productsThis document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If swallowing or overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.For the best results, this medication is often used as part of a total skin care program. Follow your doctor's recommendations.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature below 80 degrees F (27 degrees C). Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

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