Treatment FAQ

what is erythromycin treatment for

by Angelita Hammes Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Erythromycin is used to prevent and treat infections in many different parts of the body, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, diphtheria, intestinal amebiasis, acute pelvic inflammatory disease, Legionnaire's disease, pertussis, and syphilis.Jun 1, 2022

Precautions

It's possible that drinking alcohol could slightly reduce the absorption of erythromycin from your gut, which might make it slightly less effective. However there are no specific warnings about avoiding alcohol while you're taking erythromycin.

Can you drink alcohol with erythromycin?

It is commonly used for the treatment of breast cancer, malignant lymphoma, soft tissue sarcoma, gastric cancer, malignant melanoma, colon cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer and so on 41. But epirubicin has also been shown to inhibit bone marrow, cardiac toxicity, hair loss, mucositis, gastrointestinal tract reactions, high fever, and other adverse reactions 41 .

Can you treat cancer with erythromycin?

  • prokinetics appear to have a beneficial effect on gastrointestinal motility in the critically ill
  • should be used with caution given lack of clinical outcome data
  • staged introduction of prokinetics with sequential checking of QT prolongation
  • all patients on ECG monitoring

More items...

How does erythromycin work as a prokinetic?

With that caveat out of the way, it is perfectly safe to take them both together. The only antibiotic that interacts with benadryl is linezolid (zyvox) because it is a MAO inhibitor closely related to psychoactive drugs that used to be prescribed for depression.

Can you take antihistamine with erythromycin?

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What is the main function of erythromycin?

Erythromycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections. Erythromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

How long does erythromycin take to work for infection?

It is important that you give your child the whole dose each time. When should the medicine start working? Your child should start to get better after taking the medicine for 2 days.

What is the major side effect of erythromycin?

The most frequent side effects of oral erythromycin preparations are gastrointestinal and are dose-related. They include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and anorexia. Symptoms of hepatitis, hepatic dysfunction and/or abnormal liver function test results may occur. (See WARNINGS.)

What kind of infections does erythromycin treat?

Descriptions. Erythromycin is used to prevent and treat infections in many different parts of the body, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, diphtheria, intestinal amebiasis, acute pelvic inflammatory disease, Legionnaire's disease, pertussis, and syphilis.

How many days should I take erythromycin?

It is usually given 2 to 4 times a day. Your doctor will advise you on how long to take erythromycin for (usually 5 to 10 days), but depending on the infection, it could be longer. Always take your erythromycin exactly as your doctor has told you.

What drugs should not be taken with erythromycin?

Several reports and controlled studies have shown that erythromycin may interact with theophylline, carbamazepine, cyclosporin, tacrolimus, warfarin, digoxin, terfenadine, astemazole, cisapride, lovastatin, triazolam, and disopyramide.

Who should not take erythromycin?

Erythromycin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking erythromycin and call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Should erythromycin be taken on an empty stomach?

Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take with food or milk.

How long do antibiotics take to work?

"Antibiotics will typically show improvement in patients with bacterial infections within one to three days," says Kaveh. This is because for many illnesses the body's immune response is what causes some of the symptoms, and it can take time for the immune system to calm down after the harmful bacteria are destroyed.

What should you not take with erythromycin?

Several reports and controlled studies have shown that erythromycin may interact with theophylline, carbamazepine, cyclosporin, tacrolimus, warfarin, digoxin, terfenadine, astemazole, cisapride, lovastatin, triazolam, and disopyramide.

Should erythromycin be taken on an empty stomach?

Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take with food or milk.

Can I take erythromycin and ibuprofen together?

Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between erythromycin and ibuprofen. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Before Taking This Medicine

You should not use erythromycin if you are allergic to it.Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with erythromycin. Your...

How Should I Use Erythromycin?

Take erythromycin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruct...

Erythromycin Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose of Erythromycin for Campylobacter Gastroenteritis:Mild to moderate infection: 250 to 500 mg (base, estolate, stearate) or 400 to 8...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What Should I Avoid While Using Erythromycin?

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, call your doctor be...

Erythromycin Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to erythromycin (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat)...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Erythromycin?

Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medications at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which may in...

What is erythromycin used for?

Expand Section. Erythromycin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as infections of the respiratory tract, including bronchitis, pneumonia, Legionnaires' disease (a type of lung infection), and pertussis (whooping cough; a serious infection that can cause severe coughing); diphtheria (a serious infection in the throat);

Why is erythromycin prescribed?

Erythromycin is also used sometimes used to prevent heart infection in people having dental or other procedures. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What are the side effects of erythromycin?

Erythromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: 1 upset stomach 2 diarrhea 3 vomiting 4 stomach pain 5 loss of appetite

What to do if you are allergic to erythromycin?

Before taking erythromycin, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to erythromycin, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in erythromycin capsules, tablets, or suspension. Ask your pharmacist or check the manufacturer's patient information for a list of the ingredients.

How often should I take erythromycin?

It usually is taken with or without food every 6 hours (four times a day), every 8 hours (three times a day), or every 12 hours (twice a day). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take erythromycin exactly as directed.

Can you take erythromycin if you are taking a prescription?

Your doctor will probably tell you not to take erythromycin if you are taking one or more of these medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take.

Can you take more or less erythromycin?

Take erythromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly. If you are taking the suspension, do not use a household spoon to measure your dose.

What is erythromycin used for?

Uses. Erythromycin is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It may also be used to prevent certain bacterial infections. Erythromycin is known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.This antibiotic treats or prevents only bacterial infections.

How to take erythromycin?

How to use Erythromycin. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually before a meal. This medication is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. If nausea occurs, you may take it with food or milk. This medication has a bitter taste if crushed. Swallow the medication whole.

What to know before taking erythromycin?

Before using erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems ( heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG ), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).

How to report erythromycin side effects?

You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Precautions. Before taking erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other macrolide antibiotics ...

Can you take erythromycin if you are allergic to it?

Precautions. Before taking erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other macrolide antibiotics (such as azithromycin, clarithromycin ); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Does erythromycin affect QT?

Many drugs besides erythromycin may affect the heart rhythm (QT prolongation), including amiodarone, dofetilide, cisapride, pimozide, procainamide, propafenone, quinidine, sotalol, among others. Other medications can affect the removal of erythromycin from your body, which may affect how erythromycin works.

Can erythromycin cause diarrhea?

Talk to your doctor about using erythromycin safely. Erythromycin may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well.

What is erythromycin used for?

Common questions. 1. About erythromycin. Erythromycin is an antibiotic. It's widely used to treat chest infections , such as pneumonia, skin problems, such as acne and rosacea, dental abscesses, and sexually transmitted infections. Erythromycin is used in children, often to treat ear infections or chest infections.

How often should I take erythromycin?

Sometimes it's taken twice a day. The dose may be lower for children. Try to space the doses evenly throughout the day - for example, first thing in the morning, at about midday, late in the afternoon and at bedtime. Generally, it's better to take erythromycin with food so it doesn't upset your stomach.

How long does it take for erythromycin to work?

For most infections, you should feel better within a few days. For skin conditions like acne and rosacea, it may take a couple of months before you see an improvement. The most common side effects of erythromycin are feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting), stomach cramps and diarrhoea.

What is the rare blood disorder that can be caused by erythromycin?

had an allergic reaction to erythromycin or other antibiotics in the past. a rare, inherited blood disorder called porphyria. liver or kidney problems. had diarrhoea when you've taken antibiotics before. fast, pounding or irregular heartbeats.

What medicine should I take before starting erythromycin?

Tell your doctor if you're taking these medicines before you start erythromycin: antihistamine medicines, such as astemizole, terfenadine or mizolastine. an anti-sickness medicine called dom peridone. medicines for mental health problems called pimozide and amisulpride.

Can you swallow erythromycin?

There's a liquid erythromycin for children and people who find it difficult to swallow tablets. If you or your child are taking erythromycin as a liquid, it'll usually be made up for you by your pharmacist. The medicine will come with a syringe or spoon to help you take the right amount.

Can erythromycin cause syphilis?

a sexually transmitted infection called syphilis and you're pregnant - erythromycin alone may not be able to prevent your baby getting the infection. a muscle-weakening illness called myasthenia gravis - erythromycin can make your symptoms worse.

What is the name of the infection that causes a reddish brown rash on the armpits?

whooping cough. strep throat. throat infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. erysipelas, a bacterial skin infection. eruption of reddish brown patches-armpits, groin and toes. an infection by Actinomyces bacteria called actinomycosis. a bacterial infection. infection of lining of eye caused by chlamydial bacteria.

What is the infection of the skin and the tissue below the skin?

intestinal infection due to Campylobacter. person who carries the infection diphtheria. skin infection due to Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. skin infection due to Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. an infection of the skin and the tissue below the skin. an infection by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. blood poisoning caused by Listeria ...

How to apply erythromycin?

To apply a dose of erythromycin, gently pull down your lower eyelid and put the ointment into the space between your eyelid and eyeball. Then, let go of the eyelid and close your eye for a minute or two so the medication is able to reach all the necessary parts of the eye.

Can you stop erythromycin?

Be sure to use erythromycin for the full amount of time your healthcare provider told you to, even if you start to feel better. Stopping erythromycin too soon can cause your infection to come back and be harder to treat.

Does erythromycin interact with other medications?

Erythromycin may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.

Does erythromycin cause redness in the eye?

What are the side effects of erythromycin? Side effects from erythromycin include irritation, redness, or allergic reaction in or around the eye. The side effects are usually mild and go away shortly after applying it. Let your provider know if your affected eye (s) feel worse or if the side effects are causing too many problems.

Is erythromycin cheaper than brand?

Erythromycin is available as a generic medication and may be significantly cheaper compared to the brand version. Unless there is a specific reason you need the brand, the generic medication will be a better value. For even more savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.

What is erythromycin used for?

Erythromycin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes. Erythromycin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

How to report side effects of erythromycin?

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Erythromycin ophthalmic side effects (more detail)

Can you take erythromycin if you are allergic to it?

You should not use erythromycin ophthalmic if you are allergic to erythromycin. a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Can you take erythromycin ophthalmic for a viral infection?

Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Erythromycin ophthalmic will not treat a viral or fungal eye infection.

Can you use medicine in your eyes?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Can erythromycin cause eye irritation?

Stop using erythromycin ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have: signs of eye infection--pain, swelling, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage, eyes more sensitive to light. mild eye irritation. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

What is erythromycin used for?

Erythromycin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria. Erythromycin topical (for the skin) is used to treat acne vulgaris in adults. Erythromycin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

How to use erythromycin topical?

Use the medicine exactly as directed. Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

What are the side effects of erythromycin?

Erythromycin topical side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody (even if it occurs months after your last dose). dry or oily skin.

How to store erythromycin?

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube or bottle tightly closed when not in use. Erythromycin topical gel is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.

Can you use medicine on your skin?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Can you take erythromycin if you are allergic to it?

Before taking this medicine. You should not use erythromycin topical if you are allergic to it. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Erythromycin topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How long does it take to take erythromycin?

Erythromycin Lactobionate (Lactobionate): 15 to 20 mg/kg IV per day via intermittent IV infusion over 20 to 60 minutes no more than every 6 hours or via slow continuous IV infusion. -Maximum dose: 4 grams/day. Duration of therapy: -Intestinal amebiasis: 10 to 14 days.

How often should I take erythromycin?

ORAL:#N#Erythromycin Base (Base) or Erythromycin Stearate (Stearate):#N#Mild to moderate infections: 250 mg orally every 6 hours, 333 mg orally every 8 hours, OR 500 mg orally every 12 hours#N#Severe infections: 1 gram orally every 6 hours#N#-Maximum dose: 4 grams/day#N#Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate (Ethylsuccinate): 400 mg orally every 6 hours#N#-Maximum dose: Up to 4 grams/day#N#PARENTERAL:#N#Erythromycin Lactobionate (Lactobionate): 15 to 20 mg/kg IV per day via intermittent IV infusion over 20 to 60 minutes no more than every 6 hours or via slow continuous IV infusion#N#-Maximum dose: 4 grams/day#N#Duration of therapy:#N#-Intestinal amebiasis: 10 to 14 days#N#-Streptococcal infections: At least 10 days#N#Comments:#N#-This drug should be taken approximately 1 hour prior to meals.#N#-Higher doses may be increased (up to 4 grams/day), depending on the severity of the infection.#N#-Ethylsuccinate formulations doses may be given every 12 hours in 2 divided doses OR every 8 hours in 3 divided doses if desired.#N#-Many strains of Haemophilus influenzae are not susceptible to concentrations of this drug typically achieved by dosing; concomitant dosing with sulfonamides should be used in patients with upper respiratory tract infections caused by H influenzae.#N#-Resistant staphylococcal skin infections may reemerge with treatment.#N#-Patients with extrahepatic amebiasis should be given treatment with other antibiotics.#N#-Parenteral formulations should be replaced by oral formulations as soon as possible.#N#Uses:#N#-As an adjunct to antitoxin to prevent the establishment of carriers and to eradicate the organism in carriers of diphtheria caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae#N#-Treatment of erythrasma due to Corynebacterium minutissimum#N#-Treatment of listeriosis caused by Listeria monocytogenes#N#-Treatment of mild to moderate lower respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (Diplococcus pneumoniae) or Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci [GAS])#N#-Treatment of mild to moderate skin and structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus or S pyogenes#N#-Treatment of mild to moderate upper respiratory tract infections caused by H influenzae (when used concomitantly with adequate doses of sulfonamides), S pneumoniae (D pneumoniae), or S pyogenes (GAS)#N#-Treatment of respiratory tract infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae#N#-Oral formulations: Treatment of intestinal amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica

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Medical uses

This medication is used to treat acne.

May Treat: Syphilis · Diphtheria · Legionnaires' disease · Skin and skin structure infection · Pneumococcal pneumonia and more

Brand Names: A/T/S · Ery-Tab · Ilotycin · Akne-Mycin · Romycin and more

Drug Class: Acne Therapy Topical - Anti-infective · Dermatological - Antibacterial Erythromycins · Macrolide Antibiotics · Ophthalmic Antibiotic - Macrolides

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Consult your doctor

May Treat: Syphilis · Diphtheria · Legionnaires' disease · Skin and skin structure infection · Pneumococcal pneumonia and more

Brand Names: A/T/S · Ery-Tab · Ilotycin · Akne-Mycin · Romycin and more

Drug Class: Acne Therapy Topical - Anti-infective · Dermatological - Antibacterial Erythromycins · Macrolide Antibiotics · Ophthalmic Antibiotic - Macrolides

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Consult your doctor

Lactation: Does not adversely affect lactation

Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution

Precautions

  • Do not touch tip of tube
  • Swallow tablets whole
  • For capsule, delayed release products : Swallow whole. Do not break/chew/crush/dissolve. May take with food if stomach upset occurs. Watch for oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections. Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin. Tell doctor if fainting or faintness occurs. Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor. Report severe diarrhea or abdominal pain to doctor.

  • Do not touch tip of tube
  • Swallow tablets whole
  • For capsule, delayed release products : Swallow whole. Do not break/chew/crush/dissolve. May take with food if stomach upset occurs. Watch for oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections. Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin. Tell doctor if fainting or faintness occurs. Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor. Report severe diarrhea or abdominal pain to doctor.
  • For ointment products : Tell your pharmacist & Dr if you have allergies. Do not wear soft contact lenses during treatment. For external use only. Prevent contamination. Wash hands before and after using. Clean and dry skin, then use a thin layer on area. Wait 5 min. before other eye medications. Avoid contact with eyes, inside of nose or mouth. Success is dependent on completing therapy course. Important to try not to skip doses. May cause a temporary stinging/burning feeling. May blur vision. Use caution when driving. May take months for full benefit of therapy. Redness or irritation may occur at application site.
  • For solution, non-oral products : Use at the same time(s) daily as directed. Wash hands after applying. Call Dr before increasing dose or frequency. May take 3 months for full benefit of therapy. Call doctor if you are not getting better. Keep medicine away from heat or flames.
  • For tablet products : Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Do not chew or crush.

Administration

Contraindications

Interactions

Risks

  • Erythromycin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as infections of the respiratory tract, including bronchitis, pneumonia, Legionnaires' disease (a type of lung infection), and pertussis (whooping cough; a serious infection that can cause severe coughing); diphtheria (a serious infection in the throat); sexually transmitted ...
See more on medlineplus.gov

Diet

  • Erythromycin comes as a capsule, tablet, delayed-release (releases the medication in the intestine to prevent break-down of the medication by stomach acids) capsule, delayed-release tablet, and a suspension (liquid), to take by mouth. It usually is taken with or without food every 6 hours (four times a day), every 8 hours (three times a day), or every 12 hours (twice a day). Follow the directi…
See more on medlineplus.gov

Prevention

  • If you are taking the suspension, do not use a household spoon to measure your dose. Use the measuring spoon, dropper, or cup that came with the medication or use a spoon made especially for measuring medication.
See more on medlineplus.gov

Diagnosis

  • Continue to take erythromycin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking erythromycin without talking to your doctor.
See more on medlineplus.gov

Treatment

  • Erythromycin is also used sometimes used to prevent heart infection in people having dental or other procedures. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
See more on medlineplus.gov

Preparation

  • Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
See more on medlineplus.gov

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