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$266.13
- Lowest price with coupon$25.2591% 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.
What to expect from Benzamycin, on one page
Downsides
- 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.
What to expect from Benzamycin, on one page
Benzamycin (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.- Pay as low as$100.85Retail priceRetail priceLearn more
- Kroger PharmacyGet free coupon$25.25
- Rite AidGet free coupon$33.75
- CostcoGet free coupon$53.35
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
It can take time for a drug to start working, or for some side effects to go away.
Source: FDA product label and Iodine pharmacistsSide 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
Manufacturers don’t say how common these side effects are when taking Benzamycin for acne
- Skin irritation
- Peeling
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Redness
- Inflammation of the face, eyes, and nose
- Eye irritation
- Skin discoloration
- Oiliness
- Skin tenderness
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.