What Is Benzamycin? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Benzamycin is a prescription topical gel used to treat acne vulgaris. It combines two active ingredients — erythromycin (an antibiotic) and benzoyl peroxide (an antibacterial and skin-clearing agent) — in a single formulation designed to attack acne from two different angles. Here's everything you need to know about Benzamycin in 2026.

What Is Benzamycin?

Benzamycin is the brand name for erythromycin 3%/benzoyl peroxide 5% topical gel, manufactured by Bausch Health US, LLC. It is FDA-approved for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris and is available by prescription only.

A generic version — erythromycin/benzoyl peroxide topical gel — is also available from manufacturers including Rising Pharmaceuticals and is therapeutically equivalent to the brand.

What Is Benzamycin Used For?

Benzamycin is FDA-approved for one indication:

• Acne vulgaris: The most common form of acne, characterized by pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules). Benzamycin is most effective for inflammatory acne — the red, raised pimples caused by bacterial overgrowth.

It is typically used for mild to moderate acne on the face and may also be prescribed for acne on the chest or back in some cases.

Benzamycin Drug Class

Benzamycin is classified as a topical acne combination product — specifically, a combination of a macrolide antibiotic (erythromycin) and an antibacterial/keratolytic agent (benzoyl peroxide). It is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling.

How to Use Benzamycin: Dosage and Application

Standard dosing: Apply a thin layer of Benzamycin gel to the affected areas twice daily — once in the morning and once in the evening.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wash the affected skin with a mild, soap-free cleanser and rinse with warm water
2. Gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel
3. Apply a pea-sized amount of gel to the affected area — a little goes a long way
4. Allow to dry before contact with clothing, pillowcases, or hair
5. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and all mucous membranes

How Long Does It Take for Benzamycin to Work?

Most patients begin to see improvement in acne after 4–6 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. The full benefit of Benzamycin may take 8–12 weeks to become apparent. Do not stop using Benzamycin if you don't see results immediately — premature discontinuation is one of the most common reasons acne treatments fail.

Benzamycin Storage: What You Must Know

Benzamycin has unique storage requirements that set it apart from most topical acne treatments:

• The pharmacist reconstitutes Benzamycin Gel before dispensing — the erythromycin powder must be dissolved in ethyl alcohol and mixed into the benzoyl peroxide gel
• After picking up from the pharmacy, refrigerate immediately (36°F–46°F / 2°C–8°C)
• Discard after 3 months from the date prepared (printed on the label)
• Do not freeze
• Benzamycin Pak single-use packets: stored at room temperature, no refrigeration needed

Who Should Not Use Benzamycin?

Benzamycin is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide, or any other ingredient in the gel. Patients with a history of antibiotic-associated colitis should discuss the risks with their doctor before using Benzamycin. Safety and efficacy in patients under 12 years old have not been established.

For a detailed breakdown of what to expect while on Benzamycin, read our guide on Benzamycin side effects.

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