Antibiotics have been used for decades to treat acne. They help reduce bacteria and lessen redness of inflammatory acne. Erythromycin is one antibiotic that has a long history as an acne treatment.
Topical erythromycin is used to treat mild to severe inflammatory acne. It comes in many forms, from gel to creams to solutions
Oral erythromycin is used for moderate to severe cases of acne. It's nearly always used in conjunction with a topical acne treatment, for example Tazorac or azelaic acid.
Although erythromycin isn't as popular as it once was, there are benefits to using this antibiotic over others. Unlike some antibiotics that must be taken on an empty stomach, erythromycin can be taken with food (a plus for growing teens who are always eating!)
If you're pregnant and your doc recommends an antibiotic for your acne, it's almost certain erythromycin is the one you'll get. It can be used to treat acne safely during pregnancy.
Treating Acne with Antibiotics:
