Stiemycin

Stiemycin is a topical antibiotic solution (2% w/v) containing erythromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, as its active ingredient. Originally developed by Stiefel Laboratories (now a subsidiary of GSK), Stiemycin is indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents. It exerts its therapeutic effect by reversibly binding to the 23S ribosomal RNA of the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, which inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and prevents the replication of acne-causing bacteria, particularly *Cutibacterium acnes* (formerly *Propionibacterium acnes*) at the base of hair follicles. Stiemycin was evaluated in a UK Department of Health-sponsored randomized, observer-masked community-based trial comparing various antibacterial regimens for mild to moderate inflammatory facial acne. It is not indicated for use in children under 12 years of age.

Brand names

Stiemycin

Other names

Stiemycineerythromycin 2% topical solution