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Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel

Custom-compounded at Bayview Pharmacy, Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel is formulated to help manage acne, rosacea, folliculitis, and more.
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Compounded preparations are prepared by Bayview pursuant to a prescription for an individual patient. They are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated by FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Erythromycin
Topical Gel
6535c8de2ff0a24d3ddb74a8

Formula Information

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This formulation combines two active ingredients, Benzoyl Peroxide at a concentration of 20% and Erythromycin at a concentration of 4%, in a topical gel format. The gel is dispensed through a pump mechanism, which allows for easy and precise application on the skin. This ensures that the active ingredients are delivered directly to the area of the skin that requires treatment.

Benzoyl Peroxide is a type of medication known as a keratolytic. It works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and by causing the skin to dry and peel. This helps to clear pores and reduce the formation of spots and blackheads. Erythromycin is an antibiotic that prevents bacteria from growing on the skin. When used together in this formulation, they provide a comprehensive treatment for acne by targeting the bacteria that cause acne and reducing inflammation.

This formulation is typically used to treat mild to moderate acne, a common skin condition that causes spots and pimples. It may also be used to treat other skin conditions as determined by a healthcare provider. The gel-like consistency of the formulation allows for targeted treatment, ensuring that the active ingredients are absorbed directly into the skin where they are needed most.

It's important to note that while this formulation can help manage acne symptoms, it may not cure the condition. Regular and consistent use as directed by a healthcare provider is necessary for the best results. Side effects may include skin irritation, dryness, and peeling. If these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

As compounding pharmacists, we are able to customize this formulation to meet individual patient needs. This includes adjusting the concentration of the active ingredients, changing the base of the formulation, or adding additional ingredients to enhance the treatment. We work closely with healthcare providers to ensure that each formulation is tailored to the specific needs of the patient.

If you have any questions about this formulation, or if you would like to discuss how it could be customized to meet your specific needs, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. We are here to help and provide you with the best possible care.

Drug Interactions

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Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel is a combination medication used to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria and by causing the skin to dry and peel. Erythromycin is an antibiotic that stops the growth of bacteria. This product may decrease the number and severity of acne pimples and promote quick healing of pimples that do develop.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: other skin products containing erythromycin, products containing silver (such as silver sulfadiazine), other acne skin treatments (including isotretinoin, salicylic acid, and tretinoin), and certain hair perming solutions. Also, because benzoyl peroxide can bleach hair or fabrics, avoid allowing this medication to come into contact with your hair, clothing, or towels.

It's also important to note that erythromycin may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including urine tests for catecholamines), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. However, if you experience any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If you have any questions or concerns about this formulation, its use, or potential interactions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy.

How Does it Work

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Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel is a combination medication that works by attacking the bacteria that cause acne and promoting the peeling of the skin. The two active ingredients, benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin, work together to provide a comprehensive treatment for acne.

Benzoyl peroxide is a type of medication known as a keratolytic. It works by increasing the amount of moisture in the skin and causing the outer layer of the skin to break down. This helps to promote the peeling of the skin and the removal of dead skin cells, which can clog pores and contribute to acne. Benzoyl peroxide also has antibacterial properties, which help to kill the bacteria that can cause acne.

Erythromycin is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. When applied topically, it can help to reduce the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. By reducing the amount of bacteria, erythromycin helps to decrease the number of acne lesions.

The gel formulation allows for easy and precise application of the medication to the skin. The pump mechanism ensures that the correct amount of medication is dispensed each time, reducing the risk of overuse or underuse. The gel-like consistency allows for targeted treatment, ensuring that the medication is applied directly to the affected areas.

It's important to note that while this medication can help to reduce the symptoms of acne, it may not completely cure the condition. Regular and consistent use of the medication as directed by a healthcare provider is necessary for the best results. Side effects can include skin dryness, redness, and peeling, which are usually mild and improve as your skin becomes used to the medication.

If you have any questions about this formulation or how to use it, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health.

Other Uses

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The Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel is typically used for treating acne vulgaris. In addition to its primary usage, the formulation may also have a range of other therapeutic benefits. From a pharmacological perspective, this formulation may be beneficial for other conditions where bacterial infection or inflammation is a concern, thanks to the antibacterial properties of erythromycin and the peeling and anti-inflammatory effects of benzoyl peroxide. The formulation could potentially be useful in the topical management of conditions like rosacea, perioral dermatitis, folliculitis or other skin lesions where superficial bacteria might play a role.

Beyond dermatological applications, the preparation may have utility in inhibiting bacterial growth in wounds, thereby promoting healing. While not a primary indication, this could be of interest in wound care management, especially in the community pharmacy setting. However, it should be noted that this is an off-label use and well-controlled studies are generally lacking for these alternative applications. In any of these cases, it would be of utmost importance to consult a healthcare professional before attempting to use this formulation for conditions other than acne vulgaris.

This formulation should not be used near the eyes, mouth, or open wounds unless explicitly advised by a healthcare professional. Side effects, like dryness, redness, burning, and peeling are expected reactions as the skin adjusts to the medication. These effects should decrease in severity as patient's skin adjusts to the treatment. However, if these effects persist or worsen, the healthcare provider should be notified immediately. Systematic absorption of topical erythromycin, though considered minimal, may occur, particularly with inflammation or prolonged use, leading to side effects such as abdominal pain or diarrhea.

Please reach out to us if you have any questions on the alternative uses of Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel or for more specific queries related to its potential indications, contraindications, and side-effects. As compounding pharmacists, we are here to provide comprehensive information to ensure safe and appropriate use of our preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the compound formulation of Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel?

This is a semisolid topical medication. It is designed to be dispensed using a pump mechanism, which allows for easy and precise application to the skin. The active ingredients include Benzoyl Peroxide at 20% and Erythromycin at 4%, provided in a gel-like consistency.

What skin conditions is this medication used to treat?

This medication is commonly used to treat acne vulgaris. It combats the bacteria that can cause acne and dries the skin to facilitate the healing process.

How should this medication be applied?

This medication should be applied topically to the affected areas. It should be used as directed by a health professional, with the exact quantity and duration of treatment depending on each specific case and person.

What does the pump mechanism do?

The pump mechanism in the packaging makes it easier and more hygienic to dispense the medication. It ensures that you get a correct and consistent dose with each application.

Can I experience side effects from this topical gel?

Yes, like any medication, you might experience side effects. The most common ones from this gel are dry skin, mild itching or redness. If these persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Are there any precautions for using this Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel?

Yes. You should avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. If the medication comes into contact with these areas, flush thoroughly with water. In case of sunburn or eczema, its use is not recommended without medical advice.

Should I shake the bottle before use?

It is not necessary to shake the bottle since the pump mechanism ensures a uniform product dispensing. However, if the product has been sitting for a long time, a gentle shake might be needed.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your dosage schedule. Do not use extra gel to make up for the missed dose.

Can I apply makeup or other skincare products over the gel?

It is suggested that you check with your healthcare professional before applying other products on your skin while using this gel, as it may react with certain products, causing irritation or diminished effectiveness.

How should this medication be stored?

This medication should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct light and heat. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed when not in use. As with any medication, it should be kept out of reach from children and pets.

About this compounded preparation

This formulation is compounded by Bayview Pharmacy on a prescriber's order for an individual patient. It is not an FDA-approved drug product, and the FDA has not evaluated it for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality.

The conditions listed on this page are indications prescribers have ordered this preparation for. They are not FDA-approved indications, and listing them is not a statement that this preparation is effective for them.

A valid prescription is required. Availability depends on Bayview's licensure in your state. This page is general information, not medical advice — discuss your situation with a licensed healthcare provider.

Related Formulas

Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.

No compounded medications are reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
For prescribers

How to e-prescribe this formula

Controlled substance: e-prescribe only (EPCS). Faxed, phoned, and handwritten prescriptions cannot be filled. Rhode Island law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-28-3.18) requires Schedule II to V prescriptions to be transmitted electronically.
1

Find Bayview in your EHR's pharmacy directory

Search by NCPDP 4106882, or by name and ZIP: Bayview Pharmacy, Warwick, RI 02886. Select it as the destination pharmacy and save it as a favorite. Click any value to copy it.

NCPDP4106882NPI1750455143Address3844 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886Phone(401) 284-4505Fax(401) 284-4506
2

Enter the formula as a compound

Compounded preparations have no NDC, so this formula will not appear in your EHR's drug search. Use your system's compound, non-formulary, or free-text prescription entry and name the preparation exactly as written in step 3. If your EHR forces you to pick a listed drug, pick the closest entry for the active ingredient and put the full formula in the prescription body (the Sig or directions field), not in Notes to Pharmacy.

Compounded preparations have no NDC and will not appear in your drug search. For EPCS to validate, select a drug entry your EHR recognizes as controlled, usually the bulk powder entry for the active ingredient (for example Ketamine (bulk) powder, not a branded product), then put the full formula from step 3 in the prescription body. A free-text entry that does not validate as controlled will be rejected by your EPCS module.

3

Copy the prescription details

RxFormula name
Dose formDose form
Quantity________
SigAs directed by prescriber
Refills____
PharmacyBayview Pharmacy, Warwick RI, NCPDP 4106882
Copy prescription details

Quantity and directions are starting points for this dose form, not treatment recommendations. Dosing remains the prescriber's responsibility.

4

Send it

Transmit from your EHR. For this non-controlled preparation we also accept fax to (401) 284-4506 and phoned orders at (401) 284-4505. Order forms are on the formulation pages and in the prescriber portal.

Transmit with two-factor authentication through your EPCS-enabled EHR. No order form is offered for this preparation; e-prescribing guides for our controlled preparations are on the formulation pages.

Do not use Notes to Pharmacy for the formula. Some EHRs keep that field internal and never transmit it. A prescription that arrives without the formula is delayed while we call your office.

Licensed to dispense in RI, MA, CT, NY, NJ, NH, FL, and ME. Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved. A valid prescription is required. Full guide, including steps by EHR: How to e-prescribe to Bayview. Questions about this formula: call (401) 284-4505.

Benzoyl Peroxide 20%/Erythromycin 4% Topical Gel
Topical Gel
60 g
controlled

Apply topically to affected area(s)