| What is Erythromycin?
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Erythromycin is an oral antibiotic used to treat many kinds of infections. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Erythromycin?
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Erythromycin side effects may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea,
and vomiting. If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with
your doctor. Less common Erthromycin side effects may include hives, rash, skin eruptions,
and yellow eyes and skin. Rare Erthromycin side effects may include
hearing loss (temporary), inflammation of the large intestine, irregular heartbeat, severe allergic reaction, severe blisters in the mouth and eyes,
and skin reddening. |
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| How is Erythromycin taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Erythromycin provided by your doctor. Some forms of erythromycin are most effective when taken on an empty stomach. Your doctor may advise you to take each dose at least 1/2 hour and preferably 2 hours before meals. Delayed release formulations may be taken with or without food. If the drug upsets your stomach, taking it with meals may help. Ask your doctor whether this is advisable for you. Chewable forms of erythromycin should be crushed or chewed before being swallowed. Delayed-release brands and tablets and capsules that are coated to slow their breakdown should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or break. If you are not sure about the form of erythromycin you are taking, ask your pharmacist. The liquid should be shaken well before each use.
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, and you take 2 doses a day, space the missed dose and the next dose 5 to 6
hours apart; if you take 3 or more doses a day, space the missed dose and the next one 2 to 4 hours apart.
Do not take two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Erythromycin with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Erythromycin. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining
Erythromycin with benzodiazepines, blood-thinning drugs, bromocriptine,
carbamazepine, cyclosporine, digoxin, dihydroergotamine, disopyramide,
ergotamine, hexobarbital, seizure medications, tacrolimus, or
theophylline. |
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| How should I store Erythromycin?
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The liquid form of Erythromycin should be kept in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Store tablets and capsules at room temperature in a tightly closed container. |
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