Zineryt

What is Zineryt Lotion?

Zineryt lotion is a topical acne treatment containing the antibiotic erythromycin. The antibiotic kills the bacteria associated with acne, allowing the skin to heal itself naturally. It comes with a built-in applicator pad that makes it easy to apply evenly. The solution contains zinc acetate, which does more than simply aid absorption:

• Enhanced delivery: Zinc forms a complex with erythromycin, improving penetration into the skin.
• Sebum reduction: The erythromycin-zinc complex has been shown to reduce oil production.
• Healing support: Zinc promotes faster skin healing and is used in various treatments, including wound dressings.

Zineryt is licensed for acne in children, adults, and the elderly. Our service prescribes it to adults aged 18 and over – this is a service restriction, not a clinical one. Patients under 18 should consult their GP.

How Does Zineryt Work for Acne?

Acne develops when dead skin cells block hair follicles, trapping sebum. A bacterium called Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) feeds on this trapped oil and releases irritants that cause redness, swelling, and spots.

Zineryt contains erythromycin and zinc. Erythromycin stops acne-causing bacteria from producing the proteins they need to grow. These bacteria thrive on sebum, which builds up in clogged skin pores. The bacteria excrete chemicals that irritate the skin, leading to inflammation.

By reducing the number of bacteria and their harmful byproducts, the skin can heal. Zinc adds to this through its sebum-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties. A University of Leeds study also demonstrated that the erythromycin-zinc complex remains effective against erythromycin-resistant strains of C. acnes – an important advantage given rising rates of resistance.

How Long Does Zineryt Take to Work?

Compared with other acne treatments, such as oxytetracycline, Zineryt starts working relatively quickly. However, you should expect to use it for 10 to 12 weeks before seeing the full benefit.

If your acne worsens or you see no improvement within 8 weeks, stop using Zineryt and speak to a doctor. This may indicate resistance, and a different approach may be needed.

If your acne returns, you may be able to restart treatment with Zineryt. Speak to a doctor about restarting treatment; don't do it without medical review.

Zineryt Results for Acne Treatment

The erythromycin-zinc combination in Zineryt has been evaluated in several clinical trials. For example, one double-blind controlled study of 149 patients found that the erythromycin-zinc formulation was significantly more effective than placebo and performed as well as oral tetracycline at reducing acne severity over 10 weeks.

In addition, a randomised trial of 103 participants discovered that the erythromycin-zinc combination found in Zineryt outperformed topical clindamycin, with consistently lower severity grades from week 6 onwards. Meanwhile, a European trial of 148 patients conducted a head-to-head comparison between Zineryt and Duac Gel (clindamycin plus benzoyl peroxide) and found that both treatments were effective over 12 weeks, though Duac showed a faster initial response.

Finally, in a study from the University of Leeds, the erythromycin-zinc complex was shown to eradicate erythromycin-resistant bacteria in vivo. This means it can still work even when resistance to erythromycin alone is present.

Everyone responds differently. Zineryt works best as part of a broader approach, and your prescriber may recommend using it alongside benzoyl peroxide.

How to Use Zineryt Solution

Zineryt comes as a dry powder and a solvent, which must be mixed before use. Our pharmacists will mix the solution for you before sending it, so it's ready to use right away.

The bottle comes with a special applicator pad built into the cap. The applicator pad makes it easier to evenly apply the lotion to your skin. 

To apply Zinoryt lotion, follow the instructions below:

• Wash first: Clean the area you're treating and let it dry.
• Remove the cap: This exposes the applicator pad.
• Tip upside down: Tip the bottle so the pad faces downwards. Let the solution flow evenly onto the pad. Do not squeeze the bottle.
• Apply to the skin: Hold the pad against your face or skin and gently spread the solution over the affected area. Make sure you cover all the affected areas evenly. You can increase the flow by pressing the pad against your skin. Do not squeeze the bottle.
• Replace the cap: Ensure it fits tightly to the bottle.

Apply twice daily – morning and evening – for the full prescribed course.

Avoid getting Zineryt solution in the eyes, nose and mouth. If you accidentally get Zineryt in your eyes, nose or mouth, rinse the area with cold water for a few minutes.

Let the Zineryt lotion dry before applying make-up, moisturisers or other skin care products. You must take Zineryt for as long as prescribed. Stopping your treatment too soon may cause your acne to come back.

What If I Forget to Apply Zineryt Lotion?

If you forget to apply Zineryt lotion when you should, use it as soon as you remember. Do not apply more to make up for the missed dose. Leave the medication for 3 hours before you use it again.

What If I Apply Too Much Zineryt Solution?

If you accidentally apply too much Zineryt lotion, wipe the excess away with a tissue. Make sure it doesn't get into your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it does, wash with plenty of water.

How Long Can You Use Zineryt For?

The usual course is 10 to 12 weeks. Don't continue using Zineryt beyond the prescribed course without medical review, as prolonged antibiotic use increases the risk of resistance. If your acne hasn't improved after a full course, speak to your prescriber about alternatives.

What Happens If I Stop Using Zineryt?

Complete the full course as prescribed, even if your skin improves. Stopping early can allow bacteria to recover. If your acne returns after finishing, speak to your prescriber. They can assess whether to restart or try a different treatment.

Zineryt Side Effects

All medicines carry the risk of side effects. Not everyone experiences them, but read the Patient Information Leaflet before starting treatment to have a clear understanding of what to expect.

If you experience a serious skin reaction, contact a doctor immediately for medical advice. The frequency of this side effect is unknown because it cannot be estimated from available data. Symptoms of this adverse reaction include a red, scaly rash with bumps under the skin.

Other potential Zineryt side effects include a temporary stinging sensation or slight skin redness. These symptoms may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people. If you experience a very painful rash or burning feeling after using the medication that does not go away in a few hours or worsens each time you use it, tell your doctor as soon as possible and stop using the treatment.  

Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Stop using Zineryt and seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• Sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Widespread rash, hives, or intense itching
• Dizziness or feeling faint

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Call 999 or go to A&E if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.

Zineryt Lotion Interactions and Warnings

Although Zineryt is an effective solution for acne, it is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it if you are:

Allergic to erythromycin, zinc, or any of the other ingredients

• Allergic to macrolide antibiotics (erythromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin)

Precautions When Using Zineryt

Talk to your prescriber before using Zineryt if you've had an allergic reaction to any macrolide antibiotic, are using other topical acne treatments, or have particularly sensitive skin.

Cross-resistance may occur with other macrolide antibiotics, as well as with lincomycin and clindamycin. Current UK guidelines recommend against using topical antibiotics alone – your prescriber may advise combining Zineryt with benzoyl peroxide to reduce the risk of resistance.

Zineryt and Other Medications

You should disclose all other medicines you are currently taking to one of our prescribers. Because Zineryt is applied topically and very little erythromycin is absorbed into the body (0–10%), significant drug interactions are unlikely. However, there are some practical considerations:

• Other topical antibiotics (such as clindamycin): Don't use alongside Zineryt, as combining topical antibiotics increases the risk of resistance without adding meaningful benefit.
• Topical retinoids (such as Differin or tretinoin): Can generally be used alongside Zineryt, but apply them at different times of day to reduce irritation. For example, Zineryt in the morning and the retinoid at night.
• Benzoyl peroxide: Your prescriber may recommend using this alongside Zineryt to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Apply at different times of the day.
• Oral erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics: Tell your prescriber if you're taking these, as using both topical and oral erythromycin simultaneously isn't usually recommended.

If you're unsure whether a product is safe to use alongside Zineryt, speak to your prescriber or pharmacist.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Zineryt can be used during pregnancy. The amount of erythromycin absorbed from topical use is very small. Always inform your prescriber if you're pregnant.

You may breastfeed during treatment with Zineryt, but do not apply it to the area of your chest to avoid direct skin contact with your child.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zineryt Lotion