Benzamycin
(benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin)
Topical treatment for acne and pimples.
Our bottom line
Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) is a common affordable treatment for acne and pimples, but it can stain clothing and hair.
- Price before coupon$333.65
- Lowest price with coupon$32.7590% savings
- Drug class: Dermatologic
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin)
Upsides
- The combination of medicines in Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) works better to reduce bacteria in oil glands and improve overall appearance of acne than either medicine alone.
- Combining an antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide lowers the chances of Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) not working as well over time (known as resistance).
- Can be used in combination with acne pill medicine if your doctor thinks you need it.
- A generic form of Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) is available to help lower cost.
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What to expect from Benzamycin, on one page
Download Fact Sheet
146Downsides
- Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) may not work for everyone. Like with any acne medicine, you may have to try different medicines before finding the one that works for you.
- You have to apply this twice a day. With some other medicines, you may only need to apply once a day.
- Is generally only effective for mild to moderate acne. If you have severe acne, you may need an oral medication.
- The most common form of Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) needs to be stored in the fridge and is only good for 3 months even if you have medicine remaining in the container.
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What to expect from Benzamycin, on one page
Download Fact SheetBenzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) is a combination topical medicine. Erythromycin is an antibiotic that kills bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl peroxide works to fight the bacteria, dry out the skin, and shed the acne-affected area.
- Drug class: Dermatologic
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Gel
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$53.35
- Get free coupon
$85.77
What to expect when you take Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) for Acne
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Dryness
- Itching
- Burning sensation
Side effect rates for Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin)
- Dry skin8%8%4%4%
- Dryness3%3%
- Hives3%3%
- Reaction where applied3%3%1%1%
- Eyelid inflammation2%2%1%1%
- Itching2%2%1%1%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of Benzamycin.
People taking Benzamycin felt side effect more
People taking Benzamycin felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.Benzamycin (benzoyl peroxide / erythromycin) can bleach your hair and clothes. Be careful to avoid the hairline when applying to your face. Wash your hands after using to avoid staining or discoloring fabrics and clothing.