What is Zineryt?

Zineryt is a clear solution containing the antibiotic erythromycin together with zinc acetate. It is supplied as a powder and a separate solvent, which the pharmacy mixes for you before dispatch.

How does it treat perioral dermatitis?

Erythromycin acts on the organisms that contribute to the inflammatory bumps, and has an anti-inflammatory effect of its own. The zinc acetate helps the solution spread and stay on the skin, and is mildly astringent. It is an alternative topical antibiotic to metronidazole and is useful where metronidazole has not worked or was not tolerated.

It must be used within 8 weeks of mixing

Once the pharmacy has mixed it, Zineryt keeps for eight weeks. If you order more than one bottle, open and use one at a time rather than starting them together.

Who this is suitable for

Adults with perioral dermatitis diagnosed by a healthcare professional, who prefer a solution to a cream or gel, or who have not got on with metronidazole. Our prescribers will also consider your symptoms, allergies, medical conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding status and current medicines.

When this is not the right starting point

Do not use this if the rash involves your eyes, is weeping or crusting, or if you feel unwell with it. See your GP or a dermatologist instead.

Stopping steroid creams

Perioral dermatitis is very often caused by a steroid cream used on the face. If that applies to you, stopping the steroid is the single most important part of treatment. Expect the rash to flare for two to four weeks after you stop before it begins to settle. This is normal and is not a sign the treatment has failed.

Antibiotic stewardship

Because this is an antibiotic, treatment is reviewed and usually four to six weeks and reviewed at twelve to limit the risk of resistance.

How to use Zineryt for perioral dermatitis

If prescribed, apply thinly twice a day, morning and evening. Always follow your pharmacy label.

Clean First: Wash the area with a mild, non-soap cleanser and pat dry.
Dab, Do Not Rub: Tilt the bottle and dab the applicator over the whole affected area, then spread it thinly.
Let It Dry: Allow it to dry before putting anything else on your skin.
Avoid: Keep it away from your eyes, your lips and the inside of your nose.
Watch The Date: Note the date the pharmacy mixed it and discard the bottle eight weeks after that.
Do Not Share: Do not share your medicine with anyone else.

If you miss an application

Apply it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next one. If it is nearly time, skip the missed application and carry on as normal.

Looking after your skin while you treat it

Use a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser and a daily SPF. The solution contains alcohol, so it may sting on broken skin. Stop all steroid creams on your face unless a doctor has specifically told you otherwise.

Who should not use Zineryt

Anyone allergic to erythromycin, to other macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin, or to any of the other ingredients
Anyone with an active skin infection at the treatment site, until that has been treated

Off-label use

No medicine holds a UK licence specifically for perioral dermatitis. This treatment is prescribed off-label, which means your prescriber is using it outside the terms of its licence because the evidence supports it. You will be asked to confirm you understand this during your consultation.

Active ingredients

Once mixed, each millilitre contains 40mg of erythromycin and 12mg of zinc acetate dihydrate.

Other ingredients

The solvent contains di-isopropyl sebacate and ethanol. Inactive ingredients differ between manufacturers. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack for the complete ingredient list, particularly if you have an allergy or intolerance. If you have a known allergy, tell us during your consultation so our clinicians can check the pack before we dispense.

Like all medicines, Zineryt can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common or recognised effects

Itching
Redness of the treated skin
Skin irritation or a burning sensation
Dryness or flaking of the skin

Applying a thin layer, and using a plain fragrance-free moisturiser once it has dried, usually helps with dryness and irritation.

Stop using Zineryt and call 999 or go to A&E if you develop

Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread itchy rash
A severe rash with blistering or peeling skin
A sudden widespread rash covered in small pustules

Contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly if you develop

Skin that becomes very sore, swollen or weeping
Signs of a skin infection, such as spreading redness, crusting or pus
Any reaction that gets worse rather than settling after the first few weeks