Erythromycin
Erythromycin, a macrolide antibiotic is commonly used to treat
a wide variety of bacterial infections, including acne. There are
several chemical forms of erythromycin available for oral and
topical use to treat
infections
in the body. Erythromycin is one of
the few anti-acne oral antibiotics thought to be safe to take during
pregnancy
or
breastfeeding. Inform your
doctor or dermatologist if you’re pregnant and/or taking
medication.
The success in reducing lesions of acne vulgaris
through the use of erythromycin appears to be due in part to the
antibacterial activity of the drug, however,
the exact way in which it works it not fully known.
The exact mechanism by which erythromcyin reduces lesions of acne
vulgaris is not fully known; however, the effect appears to be
due in part to the antibacterial activity of the drug.
Possible Side Effects of Erythromycin
Side effects of erythromycin can include gastrointestinal
problems and allergies. Liver problems can occur, especially
in patients
with preexisting liver disorders. Some cases of dangerous heart
irregularities have also been reported. Erythromycin should not
be taken with terfenadine, astemisole or cisapride, as these
combinations can greatly increase the possibility of heart irregularities.
Nausea,
vomiting, gastric pain, and abdominal cramps are also known side
effects.
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