.
This drug is a combination of two active ingredients, benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin, which are applied topically to treat mild to moderate acne. Benzoyl peroxide breaks down and removes the outer layer of skin and exerts antibacterial activity. Erythromycin is used as an antibacterial agent.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Vitamin E
Animal studies show that benzoyl peroxide promotes tumor growth, yet the significance of this
finding in humans is unknown. A test tube study showed that when exposed to vitamin E, human
skin cells were more resistant to damage caused by benzoyl peroxide.1 Controlled
research is needed to determine whether use of benzoyl peroxide products by humans promotes
tumor growth and whether vitamin E might prevent this damage.
Zinc
Using a topical zinc solution with topical erythromycin increases the effectiveness of the
antibiotic in the treatment of inflammatory
acne.2
Summary of Interactions for Benzamycin
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | Vitamin E* |
| Supportive interaction | Zinc |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Babich H, Zucherbraun HL, Wurzburger BJ, et al. Benzoyl peroxide cytotoxicity evaluated in vitro with human keratinocyte cell line, RHEK-1. Toxicology 1996;106:187–96.
2. Toyoda M, Morohashi M. An overview of topical antibiotics for acne treatment. Dermatology 1998;196:130–4.
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The information presented in VitaminLore is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.