erythromycin + isotretinoin

Erythromycin + isotretinoin is a topical combination therapy indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris. It consists of two active small-molecule ingredients: erythromycin (2% w/w), a bacteriostatic macrolide antibiotic, and isotretinoin (0.05% w/w), a retinoid derivative of retinoic acid. Erythromycin targets *Cutibacterium acnes* (formerly *Propionibacterium acnes*) by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, while isotretinoin reduces sebum production by sebaceous glands and normalizes follicular keratinization. The combination addresses multiple factors in acne pathogenesis, including bacterial colonization, inflammation, and follicular plugging. Originally developed as the reference product Isotrexin, generic versions are being evaluated for therapeutic equivalence, safety, and efficacy.

Brand names

IsotrexinErythromycin-Isotretinoin/Verisfield gel

Other names

erythromycin/isotretinoin