What is Erythromycin: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

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Erythromycin overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Ery, Erygel

Generic Names:

  • Erythromycin

Uses:

  • Used on the skin to treat acne. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antibacterial, Antiacne

Forms:

  • Liquid, Swab, Gel/Jelly, Lotion, Ointment, Pad

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Erythromycin used for?

Ery comes in the form of a gel and is used to treat skin infections and acne. It works by preventing the growth of bacteria. Some side effects of Ery may occur that usually do not require medical attention, these include dry skin, irritation and itching.

What form(s) does Erythromycin come in

  • Liquid

  • Swab

  • Gel/Jelly

  • Lotion

  • Ointment

  • Pad

What are common Erythromycin doses?

  • Tube 30GM of 2%

  • Tube 60GM of 2%

  • Tube 1GM of 5MG/GM

  • Tube 3.5GM of 5MG/GM

  • Bottle 1GM of

  • Bottle 25GM of

  • Bottle 100GM of

  • Bottle 500GM of

  • Bottle 60ML of 2%

  • Tablet Delayed Release 250MG

  • Tablet Delayed Release 333MG

  • Tablet Delayed Release 500MG

Common Erythromycin prescriptions

  • Erythromycin
    60ml of 2% bottle

  • Erythromycin
    60 pad jar

  • Erythromycin
    250mg tablet delayed release

  • Erythromycin
    333mg tablet delayed release

  • Erythromycin
    500mg tablet delayed release

  • Erythromycin
    1gm of 5mg/gm tube

  • Erythromycin
    3.5gm of 5mg/gm tube

  • Erythromycin
    30gm of 2% tube

  • Erythromycin
    60gm of 2% tube

  • Erythromycin
    30gm of 2% tube of gel

  • Erythromycin
    60gm of 2% tube of gel

  • Erythromycin
    1gm of 5mg/gm tube of ointment

  • Erythromycin
    3.5gm of 5mg/gm tube of ointment

How to take Erythromycin

  • Keep medicine away from the eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Wash your hands well after using this medicine.

  • The pledgets (swabs) or pads should be used just once and then thrown away.

  • Wash and dry the affected area before using the medicine.

  • Use this medicine on the skin only. Never swallow it.

  • Your doctor will tell you how often to use the medicine.

  • The medicine should be spread lightly over the affected area (on and around the acne). Do not rub it into your skin.

  • Wash and dry the affected area before using the medicine.

  • Use this medicine on the skin only. Never swallow it.

  • Your doctor will tell you how often to use the medicine.

  • The pledgets (swabs) or pads should be used just once and then thrown away.

  • Wash your hands well after using this medicine.

  • Keep medicine away from the eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • The medicine should be spread lightly over the affected area (on and around the acne). Do not rub it into your skin.

What to do if you miss a dose of Erythromycin

  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.

  • Apply the missed dose as soon as possible.

  • You should not use twice as much medicine if you miss a dose.

Erythromycin contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to erythromycin.

Erythromycin warnings

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

Erythromycin interactions

  • Check with your doctor before using any other acne medicine on your skin.

Erythromycin side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Eye irritation

  • Dry or peeling skin

  • Tenderness, stinging or burning

  • Skin rash, redness, swelling or itching

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Eye irritation

  • Skin rash, redness, swelling or itching

  • Tenderness, stinging or burning

  • Dry or peeling skin

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