What is a benefit of using benzoyl peroxide in conjunction with erythromycin for acne treatment?

Using benzoyl peroxide in combination with erythromycin for acne treatment is beneficial because it improves the efficacy of erythromycin. Benzoyl peroxide acts as a topical antibacterial and has keratolytic properties, which help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. When used alongside erythromycin, which is a topical antibiotic, benzoyl peroxide can enhance its action, leading to more effective overall acne treatment.

This combination can address multiple aspects of acne pathology—while erythromycin targets the bacteria responsible for acne, benzoyl peroxide helps to clear blocked pores and reduce inflammation, fostering a synergistic effect that can yield better results than either treatment used alone. The ability of benzoyl peroxide to decrease the bacterial load also complements the antibiotic's effectiveness, further contributing to improved outcomes in managing acne.