Medicine Information

EM

Suspension125 mg/5 mlAntibioticATC: J01FA01

Generic Name

Erythromycin

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
em 125 mg suspension	৳ 60.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections.

Uses & Indications

Respiratory tract infections (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia)

Skin and soft tissue infections

Pertussis (Whooping cough)

Diphtheria

Chlamydial infections

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections

Dosage

Adults

250-500 mg every 6 hours, or 333 mg every 8 hours, or 500 mg every 12 hours depending on the severity of infection.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but monitor for adverse effects.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment is usually necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment; for severe impairment, monitor carefully.

How to Take

Oral administration. Shake the suspension well before each use. Can be taken with or without food, but taking on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) may improve absorption for some formulations. Complete the full course of treatment.

Mechanism of Action

Erythromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, thereby blocking translocation of peptidyl tRNA.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 1 hour

Excretion

Mainly via bile, with a small amount excreted in urine

Half life

1.5 to 2 hours

Absorption

Variable oral absorption; food may decrease absorption of some formulations. Acid-labile.

Metabolism

Primarily hepatic via CYP3A4 enzymes

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic.
Co-administration with terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, pimozide, or ergot alkaloids due to risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation).
Patients with pre-existing liver disease or cholestatic jaundice history related to erythromycin.

Drug Interactions

Digoxin

Increased plasma levels of digoxin.

Warfarin

May increase anticoagulant effect, leading to bleeding.

Theophylline

Increased plasma levels of theophylline, leading to toxicity.

Carbamazepine

Increased plasma levels of carbamazepine.

CYP3A4 inhibitors/substrates

Erythromycin is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor; may affect metabolism of other drugs metabolized by this enzyme.

Statins (e.g., Simvastatin, Lovastatin)

Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.

Storage

Store the dry powder below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Once reconstituted, store the suspension in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and discard any unused portion after the specified period.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Management involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and supportive care. Monitor cardiac function (ECG).

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy when indicated. Compatible with breastfeeding; passes into breast milk in small amounts, but typically not harmful to the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

100 ml bottle (when reconstituted)

Shelf Life

Unopened: 2-3 years. Reconstituted suspension: 7-14 days when stored as directed (usually refrigerated).

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Erythromycin is a well-established antibiotic with extensive clinical trial data supporting its efficacy and safety profile for various bacterial infections since its introduction in the 1950s.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (LFTs) if used for prolonged periods or in patients with pre-existing liver disease.
Renal function monitoring in patients with severe renal impairment.

Doctor Notes

Advise patients to complete the full course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Monitor for potential drug interactions, especially with CYP3A4 substrates/inhibitors.
Educate on proper reconstitution and storage of the suspension.

Patient Guidelines

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
Shake the suspension well before each dose.
Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Erythromycin generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or visual disturbances, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment if experiencing gastrointestinal side effects.
Follow a balanced diet.