Eryth
Generic Name
Erythromycin
Manufacturer
Various generic manufacturers
Country
Global
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| eryth 125 mg suspension | ৳ 55.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including those of the respiratory tract, skin, and soft tissues. This 125 mg suspension is typically formulated for pediatric use.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Not typically used in this strength for adults. For infections, standard adult dose of erythromycin is 250 mg to 500 mg every 6-12 hours, up to 4 g/day depending on severity.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but monitoring of renal and hepatic function is advised due to potential age-related decline.
Children
30-50 mg/kg/day in divided doses (usually every 6 hours or 12 hours), not to exceed 4 g/day. For 125 mg/5 mL suspension, dosage is typically based on weight and age, e.g., 5-10 mL every 6-12 hours for specific weight ranges.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is usually necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, caution and monitoring of plasma levels may be warranted.
How to Take
Shake the bottle well before each use. Measure the prescribed dose accurately using the provided measuring spoon or cup. Can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset. Complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve.
Mechanism of Action
Erythromycin acts by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby blocking the translocation of peptidyl tRNA from the A site to the P site, which prevents peptide chain elongation and bacterial growth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1-4 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the bile and feces, with a small portion (approximately 2-5%) excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half life
The elimination half-life of erythromycin is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in adults with normal renal function, potentially longer in children and those with hepatic impairment.
Absorption
Erythromycin is well absorbed orally, though absorption can be variable. The suspension form generally offers good bioavailability. Food can affect the rate and extent of absorption; taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system. Erythromycin is also an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic.
- Co-administration with terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, pimozide, or ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine) due to risk of QT prolongation, severe arrhythmias, and vasoconstriction.
Drug Interactions
QT-prolonging drugs
Co-administration with other drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., antiarrhythmics, certain antipsychotics, antidepressants, fluoroquinolones) can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, including Torsades de Pointes.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors/Substrates
Erythromycin is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4 and can increase the plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by this enzyme (e.g., warfarin, digoxin, theophylline, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, statins like lovastatin or simvastatin, sildenafil). This may lead to increased toxicity or adverse effects of the interacting drug.
Storage
Store the dry powder at room temperature (below 30°C), protected from moisture and light. Once reconstituted, store the suspension in a refrigerator (2-8°C) and do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain), reversible hearing loss, and potentially hepatic dysfunction. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered in acute overdose.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Erythromycin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it should be used only if clearly needed. Erythromycin is excreted into breast milk. Although generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, caution is advised, and the infant should be monitored for gastrointestinal disturbances or candidiasis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Unreconstituted powder: Usually 2-3 years from manufacturing date. Reconstituted suspension: Typically 7-14 days when stored in a refrigerator (2-8°C). Discard any unused portion after this period.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals worldwide
Approval Status
Approved (Globally for decades)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Erythromycin has been extensively studied and used clinically for over 60 years. While initial trials established its efficacy and safety, ongoing research often focuses on new formulations, resistance patterns, and comparative studies with newer antibiotics.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (especially with prolonged use or pre-existing hepatic impairment)
- International Normalized Ratio (INR) for patients on warfarin
- Drug levels for co-administered drugs with a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., digoxin, theophylline, carbamazepine)
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to counsel patients on the importance of completing the full course of therapy to minimize resistance.
- Thoroughly review patient's medication list for potential drug interactions, especially CYP3A4 substrates/inhibitors and QT prolonging agents.
- Advise parents/caregivers on proper reconstitution, storage, and accurate measurement of doses for pediatric patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Always complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better, to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
- Shake the suspension well before each use to ensure even distribution of the medicine.
- Use the provided measuring device (spoon or cup) for accurate dosing, as household spoons may not be accurate.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, as erythromycin can interact with many drugs.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Erythromycin generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision, it is advisable to avoid these activities until you feel well.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration, especially if experiencing diarrhea.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.