Aknemycin Plus is a topical solution used to treat all forms of acne, both non-inflammatory forms with comedones and inflammatory forms with papules and pustules, particularly those associated with very oily skin. It contains two active ingredients: erythromycin and tretinoin. Erythromycin is an antibiotic that kills the germs found in acne and reduces the inflammation of the skin. Tretinoin is a retinoid, a form of vitamin A, that helps to unblock pores and prevent new acne lesions from forming. Aknemycin Plus is a clear solution for topical administration and comes in an amber glass bottle with a white screw cap, containing 25ml of solution. The bottle has a polyethylene stopper which holds a foam pad with a nylon gauze covering. The solution contains 752 mg of alcohol (ethanol) per 1 ml of solution. Other inactive ingredients include glycerol, copolyvidone, mineral oil, petrolatum, paraffin, talc, titanium dioxide, trilaureth 4 phosphate, oleyl oleate, tricetareth 4 phosphate, and cetostearyl alcohol.
Some possible side effects of Aknemycin Plus include dry skin, skin peeling, burning/stinging/warmth on application, skin redness, itching, rash, temporary changes in skin pigmentation, increased sensitivity of the skin to UV light (photosensitivity), and skin blistering/crusting. Dryness, redness, and irritation tend to improve after a few weeks as the skin gets used to the treatment. However, if the irritation is more severe or doesnt get better, it is recommended to stop using Aknemycin Plus completely and consult a doctor. Aknemycin Plus should not be used concomitantly with other skin medications, particularly those containing keratolytic agents, as this may exacerbate any skin irritation that is present. It is also important to minimize exposure to sunlight and avoid the use of sun lamps or sun beds during treatment with Aknemycin Plus, as photosensitivity may occur.
