Erythromycin

Generic Name

Erythromycin.

Brand Names

E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab, PCE, Pediazole, Ilosone.

General Information

Erythromycin an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by a wide range of bacteria and other microorganisms. Erythromycin comes as a capsule, tablet, long-acting capsule, long-acting tablet, chewable tablet, liquid, and pediatric drop to take by mouth. It usually is taken four times a day or three times a day for 7-21 days. It can be used to treat several parts of the body, from the skin, ears, mouth, eyelids, to the bones and some internal inflammations. Erythromycin has been used in the treatment of some transmitted diseases, although there have been recorded cases of bacteria growing resistant to the drug. Sometimes it is used as an alternative to Penicillin. Erythromycin should not be taken if you are also taking any of the following drugs: ergot derivatives, e.g.: dihdyroergotamine, ergotamine, sertindole, terfenadine, cisapride, pimozide, or astemizole. It is not known whether topical erythromycin passes into the breast milk. Erythromycin, given by mouth or by injection, does pass into the breast milk. However, erythromycin topical preparations have not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies. Erythromycin may be taken with or without food. Erythromycin is metabolized mainly by the liver and caution should be used in patients with abnormal liver function.

Erythromycin Dosage

The dose of topical erythromycin will be different for different patients.
For adults - Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin two times a day, morning and evening.
For childrens - Dose must be determined by your doctor.

Side Effects of Erythromycin

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

Abdominal pain.
Nausea to vomiting.
Upset stomach.
Stomach cramps.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Severe skin rash.
Dark urine.

Warnings and precautions before taking Erythromycin

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.
You must consult your Doctor if you suffer from diarrhoea, especially if this contains blood mucus.
Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking erythromycin.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to erythromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, dirithromycin, or any other drugs.
If you are pregnant or plan to pregnant, you should consult your doctor.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdosage

After taking Erythromycin, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
Symptoms of an erythromycin overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

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