Generic
name: Erythromycin
Brand names: ERYC, Ery-Tab, Erythromycin Base Filmtab, PCE,
Dispertab, Pediazole, Ilosone
Description
Erythromycin is an antibiotic belonging to the group of drugs called
macrolide antibiotics. It is used to treat certain infections caused by
bacteria. This macrolide antibiotic has an antimicrobial spectrum which is
slightly similar or wider than that of penicillin, and is usually prescribed
for people that have an allergy to penicillins. Erythromycin prevents
bacteria from producing proteins, which interferes with bacterial growth,
while not affecting human cells.
Available as capsule, tablet, long-acting capsule/tablet, chewable
tablet, liquid, and pediatric drops
Uses
It is used to treat the following:
- Bronchitis
- Legionnaires' disease (streptococcal pneumoniae, mycoplasma
pneumoniae, and legionella pneumophila)
- Diphtheria
- Whooping cough (pertussis)
- Pneumonia
- Venereal disease (VD)
- Rheumatic fever
- Lung infection (pneumonias)
- Ear, urinary tract, intestine, and skin infections.
- It is also used before some surgery or dental work to prevent
infection.
- Used in patients who are allergic to penicillin for the prevention of
recurrent rheumatic fever.
How to use erythromycin?
- Shake the liquid and pediatric drops well before each use.
- Use a proper measuring dropper or spoon to measure the exact dose.
- Usually prescribed to be taken every 6 hours (four times a day) or
every 8 hours (three times a day). This can extend from 7 to 21 days
depending on the infection.
- Follow the directions on your packet carefully, or take erythromycin
exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than
prescribed
Safety tips
- Before taking erythromycin, tell your doctor if you have liver
disease, yellowing of the skin or eyes, colitis, or stomach problems.
You may not be able to take the medicine or you may require a special
tests or dosage adjustment during treatment.
- Do not take the medicine with astemizole (Hismanal), terfenadine
(Seldane), pimozide (Orap) or cisapride (Propulsid) . It may interact
with these medicines and could cause life-threatening heart rhythm
disorders.
- Do not crush, chew, or break tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays while taking
Erythromycin because it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight
and sunburn may result.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- Take erythromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
though certain brands of erythromycin may be taken with meals. Do not
take this medicine with or just after, fruit juices or carbonated
drinks.
Side effects
Erythromycin may cause side effects such as follows:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Wheezing
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Pale stools
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