Benzamycin gel (discontinued in the UK - March 2007)

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > B



How does it work?

Benzoyl peroxide breaks down and removes the dead cells on the skin surface. It also kills bacteria on the skin. The removal of cells from the top layer of skin unblocks the sebaceous glands (glands which secrete sebum), which become blocked in acne. This reduces inflamation of the gland as the sebum can then escape. Bacteria on the skin feed on sebum and produce waste products which further inflame the sebaceous glands, causing acne. Benzoyl peroxide reduces their numbers by reducing their food source (sebum) and by directly killing them. Erythromycin is a member of the macrolide family of antibiotics. It interferes with the production of proteins that bacteria need to multiply and divide. This inhibits the ability of the bacteria to grow (i.e. it has a bacteriostatic action). By controlling bacterial numbers, the action of the benzoyl peroxide is reinforced.

What is it used for?

- Acne

Warning!

- Avoid contact with eyes
- Avoid contact with mouth and mucous membranes.
- This preparation may bleach hair and fabrics.

Not to be used in

- Allergy to any of the active ingredients

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- The safety of this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

- Dry skin
- Stinging and redness
- Skin irritation
- Itchy rash (urticaria)