Erythromycin Information

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic, inhibiting the development of a certain bacteria. It blocks the productions of the proteins, needed for the bacterial growth.

This medicine does not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold).

Erythromycin has to be taken orally. Do not break or chew the pill. Swallow whole. You may take it with food in order to prevent the stomach irritation. You will achieve the best result by keeping a regular interval. Do not discontinue the treatment even if you notice improvement. Complete the prescribed therapy, otherwise the infection may not be cleared completely. Long-term or repeated use of Erythromycin may cause a second infection. Inform your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. You may need to use another preparation.

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while going thru the therapy.

Ask your doctor any questions you may have.

Erythromycin Safety Information

In case of missing a dose of Erythromycin, take it as soon as you remember to do so. However, if it's about time to take your next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular schedule. Thus take the next dose when it's time for it. Never take a double dose at once. Do not exceed the dosage. In case of overdose seek the medical care immediately!

Keep Erythromycin safe from heat, moisture, and light. Store this product at room temperature, in scope of 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Keep this product out of the reach of children. Keep safe from pets.

Make sure to inform your health care provider in case you have an allergy to any component in this medicine.

Inform your health care provider if you take any other medications (even non-prescription!), herbal products, vitamins, minerals, or any supplements as they may interact with this therapy! Never start or stop any treatment without the approval of your health care provider! In particular, inform your doctor if you use HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., Ritonavir), imidazoles (e.g., Ketoconazole), Pimozide, QT prolonging agents (e.g., Quinidine, Sotalol), Terfenadine, Verapamil, Cisapride, Cyclosporine, Streptogramins (e.g., Quinupristin or Dalfopristin), Sumatriptan, Diltiazem, Dofetilide, Astemizole, ergot alkaloids (e.g., Ergotamine), quinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin).

You may require need to have certain medical tests done, such as kidney function, complete blood cell counts, liver function in order to monitor your condition closely. Keep all the appointments while treating with Erythromycin.

Consult with your health care specialist before the start of the therapy if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Erythromycin is found in breast milk. Talk to your doctor also if you have plans for the pregnancy. You should discuss all the risks and benefits with your health care specialist.

Erythromycin Side Effects

Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, you should talk to your health care specialist if severe diarrhea, bloody stools, stomach pain or cramps occur. A severe form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may develop while you are treating with antibiotic or within several months after you stop the therapy.

You should immediately contact a doctor in case you notice any signs of the following side effects: severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest); hearing changes; bloody stools; irregular heartbeat; red, swollen, or blistered skin; severe diarrhea; yellowing of skin or eyes; severe stomach pain or cramps.

The following side effects do not usually need to be reported immediately, but talk to your health care provider if they become continuous or bothersome: diarrhea; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting; or loss of appetite.

Erythromycin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with others.

Inform your health care provider in case you do not notice betterment.