Erythromycin Ointment Uses

Erythromycin is an antibiotic that belongs to the macrolide family and is derived from a strain of bacteria known as Streptomyces erythraeus. Erythromycin prevents the growth of the bacteria by inhibiting the process of protein synthesis in them and is effective against a range of bacteria including the Streptococcus species, the Staphylococcus species, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, the Chlamydia species and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Erythromycin is available in many forms including an ointment and can be used for a variety of purposes.

Acne

Although erythromycin cannot cure acne, ointments of this drug can be used alone or in combination with other medications such as benzoyl peroxide to control acne. After washing your face with a mild soap, the prescribed amount of the cream should be applied to the affected area two times a day. As with any other antibiotic, it is important to complete the entire course of treatment as prescribed by the physician. The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting your physician if the acne does not improve within three to four weeks, although treatment may take eight to 12 weeks to see full improvement.

Erythromycin is generally considered safe and common side effects include dry skin, peeling and redness at the site of application.

Eye Infections

Superficial eye infections involving the conjunctiva or the cornea can be treated with erythromycin ointment if the causative microorganism is susceptible to it. As per the information published by Daily Med, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, a ribbon approximately 1 cm in length should be applied directly to the infected structure up to six times daily, depending on the severity of the infection.
Erythromycin ointment can also been used to treat neonatal conjunctivitis caused by gonococci or chlamydia. For treatment, a ribbon of ointment approximately 1 cm in length should be put in each lower conjunctival sac of the infant.
Side effects are rare. Eye irritation not present before therapy may occur sometimes.

Skin Infections

Topical forms of erythromycin can also be used to treat skin infections such as intertrigo, which is the inflammation of the skin in the moist areas, caused by bacteria. A September 2005 article in the "American Family Physician" recommends erythromycin ointment for intertrigo patients with other infections. As with other conditions, side effects are minor and include peeling, redness, dry and scaly skin and irritation.