Drugs & Vitamins

A/T/S Active Ingredients: Erythromycin Topical   Representative Names: A/T/S, Akne Mycin Ointment, Emgel, Erygel Available Product Images: What are erythromycin skin ointment, gel, lotion or pledgets? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with erythromycin? What side effects may I notice from using erythromycin? What should I watch for while taking erythromycin? Where can I keep my medicine? What are erythromycin skin ointment, gel, lotion or pledgets? (Back to top) ERYTHROMYCIN (Akne-Mycin®, Staticin®, Erygel®, EryDerm®) is a macrolide antibiotic. Erythromycin kills certain bacteria or stops their growth. Used on the skin, it helps to control acne. You can get erythromycin in an ointment, gel, lotion or pledget; some products are available as generics. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •an unusual or allergic reaction to erythromycin, foods, dyes, or preservatives How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Erythromycin skin products are for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Wash the affected area with warm water and soap, rinse, and dry completely before applying erythromycin. Wait 30 minutes after shaving or washing before applying the gel, lotion, or pledgets. These preparations contain alcohol and may sting. The lotion bottle will have an applicator top. Tilt the bottle and apply the solution. Cover all pimples and the surrounding area until the skin is wet. Keep away from the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you are using the ointment or gel apply a thin film to cover the affected area. The pledget (swab) form is rubbed over the whole affected area. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with erythromycin? (Back to top) •other antibiotics Do not use corticosteroid skin products (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone and prednisolone) at the same time as this medicine as they can cover up problems. Do not use any other skin products without telling your prescriber or health care professional. Check before starting or stopping any of your medicines or non-prescription products. What side effects may I notice from using erythromycin? (Back to top) Side effects with erythromycin skin products are rare, they include: •dry, scaly skin •skin irritation, burning, or itching •redness, swelling, pain What should I watch for while taking erythromycin? (Back to top) Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your skin does not improve after 3 to 6 weeks of use. It can take 8 to 12 weeks of treatment to see the full effects of erythromycin. Do not wash your face more than 2 to 3 times a day. Frequent washing can make your skin very dry, scale or peel. Let your prescriber or health care professional know if this happens. Do not use any soothing cream or ointment without advice. Erythromycin skin lotion, gel and pledgets contain alcohol and can catch fire. Keep away from lighted matches, cigarettes and other naked flames. Do not get the solution in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water-based products and apply lightly. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Protect from heat and flame. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.