Medicine Information

Erythromycin

Name: Erythromycin
Brand: Erythromycin
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet250 mgMacrolide AntibioticsATC: J01FA01

Generic Name

Erythromycin 250 mg tablet

Manufacturer

Various Pharmaceutical Companies

Country

Global / Various

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
ery 250 mg tablet	৳ 5.17	৳ 51.70

Description

Overview of the medicine

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

Uses & Indications

Respiratory tract infections

Skin and soft tissue infections

Chlamydia infections

Mycoplasma pneumonia

Diphtheria

Pertussis

Dosage

Adults

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

Elderly

Similar to adult dosage, but with caution due to potential renal/hepatic impairment.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment usually needed for mild-moderate impairment; caution in severe impairment.

How to Take

Oral administration. May be taken with or without food, but food may reduce GI upset.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible microorganisms, inhibiting protein synthesis by blocking the polypeptide exit tunnel.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

1-4 hours

Excretion

Primarily bile/feces; small amount via urine

Half life

1.5-2 hours (in adults with normal renal function)

Absorption

Variably absorbed from the GI tract; improved with enteric-coated forms or esters.

Metabolism

Hepatic, via CYP3A4

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or other macrolides
Concurrent use with astemizole, terfenadine, cisapride, pimozide, or colchicine

Drug Interactions

Digoxin

Increased digoxin levels.

Warfarin

Increased anticoagulant effect.

Statins (e.g., Simvastatin)

Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and hearing loss (reversible). Management is supportive and symptomatic.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Generally considered safe during pregnancy. Excreted into breast milk, but generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets100 tablets

Shelf Life

2-3 years from manufacturing date

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic available (patent expired)

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical data available supporting its efficacy in bacterial infections since its discovery. Ongoing research explores new indications and resistance patterns.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (for prolonged therapy)
CBC if clinically indicated

Doctor Notes

Advise patients on the importance of completing the full course.
Counsel on potential GI upset and interactions with other medications, especially statins and anticoagulants.

Patient Guidelines

Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve.
Do not share this medication with others.
Report any persistent side effects.

Missed Dose Advice

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.