Aknemycin Plus Solution is a topical prescription treatment for acne. Almirall Limited manufactures it. Firstly, each gram of solution contains 40 mg of erythromycin and 0.25 mg of tretinoin. Additionally, erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. Meanwhile, tretinoin is a topical retinoid derived from vitamin A. As a result, the combination targets acne through two different mechanisms in a single solution. The Aknemycin Plus Summary of Product Characteristics confirms the ingredients and indications.
Why the combination matters
Acne involves several things happening at once. Firstly, bacterial growth on the skin (mainly Cutibacterium acnes). Additionally, inflammation of the pilosebaceous unit. Meanwhile, blocked pores from dead skin cell build-up. As a result, tackling only one part of the picture often gives incomplete results. Furthermore, Aknemycin Plus addresses the bacterial side with erythromycin and the pore-blockage side with tretinoin in a single application.
A 9 to 12 week course
This solution is typically used for 9 to 12 weeks. In particular, the treatment window reflects the time needed for tretinoin to work through its full retinisation and comedolytic effect. Additionally, it also limits the duration of antibiotic exposure to reduce resistance risk. Meanwhile, therapeutic improvement may not be visible for several weeks after starting. As a result, consistent daily application over the full course matters more than any single application.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredients: erythromycin 40 mg/g (4%) and tretinoin 0.25 mg/g (0.025%)
Form: clear cutaneous solution for topical administration
Pack sizes: 25ml bottle or 50ml pack (2 x 25ml)
Class: fixed-combination topical antibiotic and retinoid for acne
Legal status: Prescription Only Medicine (POM)
Excipients: ethanol, glycerol, copovidone
Applicator: integrated foam pad activated by pressing the screw cap
Storage: below 30 degrees Celsius, in outer carton to protect from sunlight
Suggested image alt text: Aknemycin Plus Solution 25ml bottle with foam applicator for topical acne
Additional information
Quantity
1 x 25ml, 2 x 25ml, 3 x 25ml
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An antibiotic and retinoid solution for all forms of acne
If your acne includes both blackheads and inflamed spots, and you want a topical that tackles both, Aknemycin Plus Solution is a well-established prescription option. Firstly, it combines an antibiotic (erythromycin 4%) with a retinoid (tretinoin 0.025%). Additionally, it comes as a clear cutaneous solution with a foam applicator for controlled application. Meanwhile, it’s licensed for all forms of acne, both non-inflammatory and inflammatory. At Courier Pharmacy, we help you decide whether it fits your acne pattern and skin type.
What is Aknemycin Plus Solution: overview
A once or twice daily prescription solution for acne vulgaris.
Combines two well-established acne actives: erythromycin (antibiotic) and tretinoin (retinoid).
Licensed for both non-inflammatory acne (comedones) and inflammatory acne (papules and pustules), especially with oily skin.
Applied through a foam pad applicator for controlled, hygienic use.
Standard course length is 9 to 12 weeks, with review after that.
Why the dual mechanism matters
Erythromycin and tretinoin work through completely different pathways. Firstly, erythromycin reduces the bacterial contribution to inflammation. Additionally, tretinoin addresses the follicular blockage that leads to blackheads and whiteheads. Meanwhile, using both together tackles more of the acne process than either alone. As a result, the combination is a well-recognised approach for acne with mixed features.
How it compares to Duac
Duac (clindamycin plus benzoyl peroxide) is another topical acne combination. Meanwhile, both Duac and Aknemycin Plus contain a topical antibiotic. However, they differ in the second component. In particular, Duac uses benzoyl peroxide, which reduces antibiotic resistance risk. Additionally, Aknemycin Plus uses tretinoin, which tackles blocked pores directly. As a result, your prescriber picks based on your acne pattern and skin tolerance.
How it compares to Epiduo
Meanwhile, Epiduo (adapalene plus benzoyl peroxide) is a non-antibiotic combination. In contrast, Aknemycin Plus contains an antibiotic. Additionally, Epiduo has no time limit due to its non-antibiotic composition. However, Aknemycin Plus is limited to a 9-12 week course. As a result, the two products fit different clinical situations.
A note on the alcohol content
Notably, Aknemycin Plus Solution contains ethanol. In particular, this makes it flammable. Additionally, it may sting on damaged or freshly shaved skin. Meanwhile, the ethanol also helps deliver the actives and dries the solution quickly. As a result, avoid open flames until the solution has fully dried, and don’t apply directly after shaving.
Antibiotic resistance considerations
As with any topical antibiotic, long-term use of erythromycin alone can drive antibiotic resistance in skin bacteria. Meanwhile, this is why the treatment course is limited to 9 to 12 weeks. Additionally, if maintenance treatment is needed afterwards, non-antibiotic topicals (such as adapalene or benzoyl peroxide alone) can take over. As a result, the time-limited course is a safety measure, not an arbitrary rule.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Aknemycin Plus Solution
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy. The General Pharmaceutical Council regulates us. Firstly, acne looks different for every patient. Additionally, your acne pattern, skin sensitivity, and previous treatments all matter. As a result, our prescribers ask about those things. Getting your acne treatment right is about the fit.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
We don’t disappear after we’ve dispensed. Furthermore, if your skin flares during the retinisation phase, we’re here. Additionally, if you’re ready to switch to a maintenance topical after the 12-week course, we help plan that. For patients navigating hormonal acne alongside other health concerns, that continuity matters. Care that fits you means care that keeps showing up.
Free fortnightly drop-in clinics in Derby
Healthcare shouldn’t only happen when you’re paying for it. Every fortnight, we run free drop-in talks at Insomnia, Derby, from 12 to 1pm. Anyone can come. No appointment. No cost. No pressure. We cover skincare, acne, hair loss, hormones, and more.
Buy Aknemycin Plus Solution (Prescription Only) from Courier Pharmacy
Aknemycin Plus Solution is a Prescription Only Medicine. You can request it at courierpharmacy.co.uk. Firstly, complete an online consultation. Then, a UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers. If approved, we dispense and deliver discreetly.
Complete a quick online consultation
A UK prescriber reviews your answers
If approved, a prescription is issued
We dispense and deliver discreetly to your door
If it isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option.
Summary
Contains erythromycin 4% and tretinoin 0.025% in a clear cutaneous solution.
Comes with a foam pad applicator for controlled, hygienic application.
Licensed for all forms of acne (comedones, papules, and pustules) in adults and adolescents from 12 years, especially with oily skin.
Treatment course is typically 9 to 12 weeks.
Aknemycin Plus Solution is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews every request at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Active ingredients in Aknemycin Plus Solution
Erythromycin 4%
Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. In particular, it inhibits protein synthesis in Cutibacterium acnes, the main bacterial contributor to acne. Meanwhile, this reduces bacterial numbers on the skin and the inflammatory response they drive. Additionally, erythromycin also reduces skin surface lipids and has a direct anti-inflammatory effect. As a result, it addresses both bacterial and inflammatory components of acne.
Tretinoin 0.025%
Tretinoin is a topical retinoid derived from vitamin A. Firstly, it binds to retinoic acid receptors inside skin cells. Additionally, this increases cell turnover in the cornified epithelium, including the epithelium of follicular ducts and comedones. Meanwhile, tretinoin loosens open comedones (blackheads) and transforms closed comedones (whiteheads) into open ones for elimination. As a result, it directly tackles the pore-blockage that drives acne formation.
Solution base and ethanol
The solution base includes ethanol, glycerol, and copovidone. Meanwhile, this delivers the actives in a clear, quick-drying solution. Additionally, the ethanol content makes the solution flammable, so avoid open flames until fully dried. Furthermore, the alcohol may sting on damaged or shaved skin. As a result, apply carefully and let the solution dry before dressing.
What is Aknemycin Plus Solution for?
All forms of acne
Aknemycin Plus Solution is licensed for the treatment of all forms of acne. In particular, this includes non-inflammatory forms with comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and inflammatory forms with papules and pustules. Meanwhile, it's especially useful in patients with oily skin. Additionally, the combined mechanism suits acne with mixed features rather than only one predominant type.
Where it fits in the acne pathway
Fixed-combination topical treatments are recommended first-line for mild to moderate acne. In particular, adapalene plus benzoyl peroxide (Epiduo) and clindamycin plus benzoyl peroxide (Duac) sit alongside Aknemycin Plus in this space. Meanwhile, the choice depends on your acne subtype, skin sensitivity, and previous treatment history. As a result, your prescriber picks based on the full clinical picture.
What it won't fix
Above all, this solution is not for severe nodulocystic acne or acne with significant scarring. In particular, deep cystic acne usually needs oral isotretinoin. Additionally, hormonal acne patterns may need combined oral hormonal treatment (such as combined contraceptive pills or spironolactone). Meanwhile, if your acne is not responding, discuss the wider picture with your prescriber.
How does Aknemycin Plus Solution work?
Erythromycin's antibacterial action
Erythromycin binds to bacterial ribosomes. Firstly, this stops the bacteria from making the proteins they need to survive and reproduce. Additionally, this reduces the population of Cutibacterium acnes on the skin. Meanwhile, fewer bacteria mean less inflammation around each hair follicle. As a result, existing inflamed spots settle faster and new ones develop less often.
Tretinoin's comedolytic action
Tretinoin increases cell turnover in the follicular epithelium. Firstly, this reduces the adhesiveness of the dead skin cells that block pores. Additionally, open comedones (blackheads) are loosened and ejected. Meanwhile, closed comedones (whiteheads) transform more rapidly into open ones and are then eliminated. As a result, tretinoin directly clears the follicular blockage that drives acne formation. Furthermore, it also reduces the size of sebaceous glands over time.
How long until you see results
Some improvement may appear within 2 to 4 weeks. However, maximum benefit usually shows by 9 to 12 weeks. Meanwhile, response varies from person to person. Additionally, the retinisation phase (initial peeling and redness) can make it look like your acne is worse at first. As a result, sticking with the course over the full 9 to 12 weeks matters.
How to apply Aknemycin Plus Solution
Step-by-step application
Firstly, gently wash the affected areas with a mild cleanser. Rinse with warm water and pat completely dry. Then, press the screw cap onto the foam pad until you feel a click. Next, invert the bottle so the solution wets the applicator. After that, wipe the applicator over the affected skin areas in a thin layer. Finally, allow the solution to dry completely before applying anything else.
Skincare routine alongside
Meanwhile, use a gentle non-comedogenic moisturiser if your skin becomes dry. Additionally, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day. Furthermore, avoid harsh cleansers, alcohol-based toners, and physical exfoliants during treatment. As a result, keep your routine minimal so the solution can work without added irritation.
Sun protection and other precautions
Above all, tretinoin makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Firstly, use SPF 30 or higher daily. Additionally, avoid sunbeds and prolonged sun exposure. Meanwhile, don't apply the solution before swimming, as chlorine and salt water can worsen irritation. Furthermore, allow the solution to dry fully before lighting a cigarette or approaching an open flame, since the ethanol content is flammable.
Treatment dosage Aknemycin Plus Solution
Adult and adolescent dose
For adults and adolescents from 12 years, apply once or twice daily to the affected areas. In particular, most patients start with once-daily evening application and increase to twice daily if tolerated. Additionally, the affected areas should be gently washed and patted dry before application. Meanwhile, the applicator delivers a controlled amount without needing your hands to touch the solution. The BNF and Aknemycin Plus Summary of Product Characteristics confirm these directions.
How to use the foam applicator
The bottle has a built-in applicator that keeps application simple and hygienic. Firstly, press the top of the screw cap onto the foam pad until you feel a click. Then, invert the bottle so the solution wets the applicator pad. Next, wipe the applicator over the affected skin areas in a thin layer. After use, the applicator closes automatically. As a result, no direct hand contact is needed.
How long to use
Most patients use Aknemycin Plus Solution for 9 to 12 weeks. However, response can take several weeks to become visible. Additionally, some patients notice improvement within 2 to 4 weeks. Meanwhile, maximum benefit usually shows by the end of the 12-week course. As a result, sticking with consistent daily use over the full course gives the best chance of a real response.
What to do if symptoms don't improve
If your acne hasn't improved after 12 weeks, don't just continue using the same solution. Firstly, contact your prescriber. Additionally, they may switch you to a different topical (such as adapalene with benzoyl peroxide, or a stronger retinoid) or consider oral treatment. Meanwhile, persistent or worsening acne needs proper review rather than more antibiotic exposure.
Warnings and precautions for Aknemycin Plus Solution
Not for pregnancy or planning pregnancy
Above all, topical tretinoin should not be used during pregnancy. In particular, retinoids are known teratogens, and while topical absorption is low, the theoretical risk means tretinoin is avoided during pregnancy and planning. As a result, stop use if you become pregnant. Additionally, use effective contraception during treatment if you are sexually active and could become pregnant. Discuss this fully with your prescriber.
Not for breastfeeding
Similarly, avoid Aknemycin Plus during breastfeeding. Meanwhile, systemic absorption from topical application is low but not zero. As a result, safer alternatives may be more appropriate during this period. Additionally, discuss any pregnancy or breastfeeding status during your consultation.
Sun sensitivity
Tretinoin increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light. Firstly, always use SPF 30 or higher during treatment. Additionally, avoid deliberate sun exposure, sunbeds, and sunlamps. Meanwhile, wear hats and physical protection when outdoors for extended periods. As a result, sun protection is a non-negotiable part of retinoid treatment.
Alcohol content and flammability
Notably, the solution contains ethanol and is flammable. Firstly, don't light a cigarette or approach an open flame until the solution has fully dried on your skin. Additionally, avoid smoking near the bottle when open. Furthermore, keep the bottle away from heat sources. As a result, treat the solution with the same care as any alcohol-based product.
Skin conditions to avoid
Meanwhile, do not use Aknemycin Plus if you have acute eczema, rosacea, sunburn, or acute inflammatory conditions of the skin. In particular, this includes inflammation around the mouth. Additionally, don't apply to broken skin, cuts, or areas with existing dermatitis. As a result, wait until any acute skin problem has fully settled before starting or resuming treatment.
Family history of cutaneous epithelioma
Notably, don't use Aknemycin Plus if you or a member of your family has ever suffered from skin tumours called cutaneous epithelioma. Firstly, this is a specific SmPC contraindication. Additionally, this history needs disclosure during consultation. As a result, your prescriber will consider an alternative treatment if this applies.
Swimming, salt water, and X-rays
Additionally, don't apply the solution immediately before swimming. In particular, chlorine and salt water can increase skin irritation. Meanwhile, if you need an X-ray, remove all traces of the solution from the area beforehand. Furthermore, if the solution gets on your fingers, wash them thoroughly to avoid transfer.
Eye contact
Firstly, avoid contact with your eyes when applying. If the solution accidentally touches your eyes, rinse thoroughly with cold water. Additionally, take care that the solution doesn't build up in creases around your nose or mouth. Meanwhile, avoid applying near the delicate skin of the eyelids or lips.
Side effects of Aknemycin Plus Solution
Common side effects
Common side effects include a burning sensation on damaged skin, mild skin irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling. Meanwhile, most of these effects are mild and settle as your skin adapts to the retinoid over the first few weeks. Additionally, an initial worsening of acne (a purging effect) is common in the first few weeks. As a result, don't stop treatment based on early flare alone.
Uncommon side effects
Uncommon side effects include contact dermatitis, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and marked scalp or skin discomfort. Furthermore, some patients notice persistent redness or flaking beyond the first few weeks. Additionally, if these effects persist, your prescriber may adjust or pause treatment.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help for signs of a severe allergic reaction. In particular, this includes swelling of the face and throat, skin rash, breathing difficulties, or loss of consciousness. Additionally, contact your prescriber for severe skin irritation that doesn't settle with a lower application frequency. Meanwhile, any new worsening of your general health during treatment warrants review.
Yellow Card reporting
You can report any suspected side effects directly via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Drug interactions with Aknemycin Plus Solution
Other topical retinoids
Firstly, don't use Aknemycin Plus alongside other topical retinoids (adapalene, isotretinoin, tazarotene, or another tretinoin product). In particular, combined retinoid use significantly increases irritation without adding benefit. Additionally, if you're currently on another retinoid, discuss switching rather than layering. Meanwhile, oral isotretinoin is a separate consideration and needs specialist input.
Other topical acne treatments
Meanwhile, avoid using other topical medications that may cause skin irritation alongside Aknemycin Plus. In particular, this includes benzoyl peroxide products, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid at the same time of day. Additionally, medicated soaps and abrasive scrubs also add to irritation. As a result, keep your routine simple during the treatment course.
Other macrolide antibiotics
Additionally, don't use topical erythromycin alongside oral erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin without prescriber guidance. In particular, this reduces the risk of driving antibiotic resistance. Meanwhile, tell your prescriber if you're on any oral antibiotics before starting Aknemycin Plus. As a result, they can plan the right combination if needed.
Frequently asked questions about Aknemycin Plus Solution
How quickly does Aknemycin Plus Solution work?
Some improvement can appear within 2 to 4 weeks. However, maximum benefit usually shows by 9 to 12 weeks. Meanwhile, an initial purging period with mild flare is common in the first few weeks. Additionally, consistency over the full course matters more than any single application.
Can I use it long-term?
No. Aknemycin Plus is licensed for a 9 to 12 week course. In particular, longer use risks driving antibiotic resistance in skin bacteria. Meanwhile, if maintenance treatment is needed after the course, non-antibiotic topicals (such as adapalene or benzoyl peroxide alone) can take over. As a result, discuss the next step with your prescriber as the course ends.
How does it compare to Duac?
Both are topical acne combinations. However, they differ in composition. Firstly, Duac contains an antibiotic (clindamycin) plus benzoyl peroxide. Additionally, Aknemycin Plus contains an antibiotic (erythromycin) plus a retinoid (tretinoin). Meanwhile, both have similar 9 to 12 week course limits. As a result, the choice depends on your acne pattern and skin tolerance.
How does it compare to Epiduo?
Epiduo (adapalene plus benzoyl peroxide) is a non-antibiotic combination. In contrast, Aknemycin Plus contains an antibiotic. Firstly, Epiduo can be used long-term without a time limit. Additionally, Aknemycin Plus is limited to a 9 to 12 week course. However, Aknemycin Plus may be more suitable for patients who can't tolerate benzoyl peroxide. As a result, the two serve different clinical situations.
Will it bleach my hair or clothes?
No. Unlike benzoyl peroxide-containing products, Aknemycin Plus does not contain a bleaching agent. Meanwhile, standard fabric care applies. Additionally, this is one practical advantage over products like Duac and Epiduo.
Do I need SPF while using it?
Yes. Tretinoin increases sun sensitivity. Firstly, use SPF 30 or higher daily. Additionally, avoid sunbeds and prolonged sun exposure. Meanwhile, wear protective clothing and hats if you can't avoid strong sun. As a result, daily sunscreen is essential during treatment.
Can I use moisturiser with it?
Yes. In fact, a gentle non-comedogenic moisturiser often helps manage the dryness and peeling that occur early in treatment. Meanwhile, apply moisturiser after the solution has fully dried. Additionally, choose oil-free formulations to avoid clogging pores.
Can I use it while pregnant?
No. Aknemycin Plus should not be used during pregnancy. In particular, retinoids are known teratogens, and although topical absorption is low, the theoretical risk means it's avoided. Additionally, use effective contraception during treatment if there's any pregnancy risk. Meanwhile, discuss any pregnancy planning during your consultation.
Can I use it while breastfeeding?
No. Aknemycin Plus should not be used during breastfeeding. Meanwhile, discuss safer alternatives with your prescriber if breastfeeding. Additionally, waiting until after breastfeeding ends is often the sensible approach.
Can children use it?
Yes, from age 12 upward. In particular, this solution is licensed for adolescents 12 years and over. Meanwhile, it is not recommended for children under 12. Additionally, adolescents need careful skincare guidance to manage the dryness and sun sensitivity that treatment can cause.
Why does it contain alcohol?
The ethanol serves as a solvent to keep the actives in solution and helps the product dry quickly. Meanwhile, this also makes it flammable, so avoid open flames until fully dried. Additionally, it may sting on damaged or freshly shaved skin. As a result, apply carefully and avoid application straight after shaving.
Can I use it on my back or chest?
Yes. Although the face is the most common area, this solution can be applied to acne on the back, chest, or shoulders. Meanwhile, the foam applicator makes it easy to reach and coat larger areas. Additionally, take care with the same precautions (sun protection, avoiding damaged skin) for body application.
Should I stop if my skin gets irritated?
Some redness, dryness, or peeling in the first few weeks is normal retinisation. Firstly, try using the solution less often (once daily instead of twice, or every other day) until your skin adapts. Additionally, use an oil-free moisturiser. Meanwhile, if irritation is severe or worsening, stop and contact your prescriber.
Can I combine it with other acne products?
Not without prescriber guidance. Firstly, other topical acne actives (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, other retinoids) can significantly increase irritation when combined. Additionally, use only what your prescriber has recommended. Meanwhile, keep your overall routine simple during the course.
Will it help with acne scars?
This solution treats active acne rather than existing scars. However, tretinoin has some evidence for improving post-inflammatory pigmentation over time. Meanwhile, by reducing new spots, it helps prevent further scarring. Additionally, dedicated scar treatments may help fade existing scars. As a result, discuss any scarring concerns with your prescriber.
Can I wear makeup over it?
Yes, once the solution has fully dried. Firstly, allow 15 to 20 minutes after applying before adding makeup. Additionally, use non-comedogenic (oil-free) makeup products. Meanwhile, remove makeup gently at night before applying the next dose.
What if I miss a dose?
Apply as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Meanwhile, don't apply twice to catch up. Additionally, consistency over weeks matters more than any single missed application. As a result, resume normal application without doubling up.
How should I store it?
Store below 30 degrees Celsius. Additionally, keep it in the outer carton to protect from direct sunlight. Meanwhile, keep it out of the reach of children. Furthermore, don't use it past the expiry date on the pack.
What if it doesn't work after 12 weeks?
Contact your prescriber. In particular, if 12 weeks hasn't given adequate improvement, continuing risks antibiotic resistance without added benefit. Meanwhile, your prescriber may switch you to a different topical combination, or consider oral options like lymecycline, doxycycline, or specialist referral for isotretinoin. As a result, this is a signal for review, not a reason to continue.
Will I need a prescription from Courier Pharmacy?
Yes. Aknemycin Plus Solution is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber must review your suitability. You can complete the consultation at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2021) Acne vulgaris: management. NICE guideline NG198. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng198
