Clinical Overview
Erythromycin is the prototypical macrolide antibiotic produced by Saccharopolyspora erythraea. It inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. Effective against Gram-positive bacteria, atypical pathogens, and Bordetella pertussis. Indicated for respiratory tract infections, pertussis, diphtheria, syphilis in penicillin-allergic patients, and prophylaxis of neonatal chlamydial conjunctivitis.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. If gastric distress occurs, taking with light food is permissible. Space doses evenly throughout the day.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. Rare/Severe: Cholestatic hepatitis, QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, reversible sensorineural hearing loss (at high doses), and infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in neonates.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Potent inhibitor of CYP3A4; interacts with carbamazepine, theophylline, warfarin, and ergot alkaloids. Contraindicated in severe liver disease or co-administration with terfenadine/astemizole/cisapride.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.