Erythromycin(er ith roe mye’ sin)

What does Erythromycin do?

Bacteria produces important proteins needed to survive, Macrolid antibiotics are know to slow the growth or sometimes kill sensitive bacteria by reducing the production of the proteins. Erythromycin is in this group of drugs.

Erythromycin is used to treat some infections caused by bacteria, the antibiotic is also used before some surgery and dental work to prevent infections. However antibiotics will not work for viral infections.

How do I take Erythromycin?

Erythromycin can be taken in multiple different ways, as a tablet, Chewable tablet, Liquid, pediatric drops that are taken by mouth. There are also several different ways to take this medication for acne. Most infections will require you take the Erythromycin for 7-21 days and sometimes more often. Follow the directions carefully when taking your prescription and always ask your doctor or your pharmacist to explaing anything you might not fully understand. Always take prescriptions exactly as your are directed. Do not take more or less then your doctor prescribed. Continue to take erythromycin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking erythromycin without talking to your doctor.

Is Erythromycin used for acne?

Did you know erythromycin is the second most commonly used oral antibiotic for acne control.  Erythromycin can be used orally or as a topical. Erythromycin is available in the following topical dosage forms: Pad, Gel/Jelly, Ointment, Solution, Swab, and Lotion. Erythromycin has an added benefit of helping reduce redness.

What else is Erythromycin called?

Erythromycin also has the following brand names,

E-Mycin,E.E.S. ,Ery-Tab,EryPed,Eryc,Erythrocin Stearate,Erythrocot,Ilosone,MY-E,PCE,Robimycin

It also has some brand names of combination products,

E.S.P. (containing Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole),Eryzole (containing Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole),Pediazole (containing Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole),Sulfimycin (containing Erythromycin and Sulfisoxazole)

Side Effects of Erythromycin

All medicines might cause some side effects, but many people have minor side effects if any at all, check with your doctor if any of the most common side effects persist or start to bother you when you take Erythromycin.

Loss of appetite; mild diarrhea; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting.

Always seek medical attention right away if you have any severe side effects you’re your taking Erythromycin

Here are some but not all Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody stools; decreased hearing or hearing loss; irregular heartbeat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe diarrhea; severe stomach pain; stomach cramps; symptoms of liver problems (eg, yellowing of the skin or eyes; pale stools; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite; dark urine

This is not a complete list of the side effects that might occour. If you have any questions about the side effects call your health care provider.

If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.