Common Use

Erythromycin belongs to a class of medications known as macrolide antibiotics. It is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. Additionally, it is prescribed to prevent bacterial endocarditis and recurrent episodes of rheumatic fever.

Dosage and Direction

Take erythromycin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces). This medication can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk. Do not crush, chew, break, or open enteric-coated or delayed-release pills. Swallow the pill whole.

Precautions

Antibiotics, including erythromycin, can cause diarrhea, which may indicate a new infection. If you experience watery or bloody diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately. Avoid using anti-diarrheal medications unless specifically advised by your doctor.

Contraindications

Do not use erythromycin if you are allergic to it or if you are taking cisapride (Propulsid) or pimozide (Orap). If you have liver disease or myasthenia gravis, consult your doctor for dose adjustments or special monitoring. While erythromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Always consult your doctor before using erythromycin if you are breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting;
• Nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice;
• Watery or bloody diarrhea.

Less serious side effects may include:

• Mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain;
• Dizziness, headache, or fatigue;
• Vaginal itching or discharge;
• Mild itching or skin rash.

Drug Interaction

Erythromycin may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products you are using. Do not start any new medications without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

In case of suspected overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or hearing loss.

Storage

Store erythromycin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. This content should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of this information and are not responsible for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from its use or from self-treatment.