Etrocin
Generic Name
Erythromycin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| etrocin 125 mg suspension | ৳ 84.75 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Etrocin 125 mg Suspension contains Erythromycin, a macrolide antibiotic. It is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections in children, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
This strength (125 mg/5 ml suspension) is primarily used for pediatric patients. Adult doses typically use higher strengths (e.g., 250 mg, 500 mg tablets/capsules). For children, typical dosage is 30-50 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses, up to 1 gram/day.
Elderly
As for adults, this strength is primarily for pediatric use. Dosage adjustments may be considered based on overall health and hepatic function if higher strengths are used.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is usually not necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, caution is advised, and monitoring may be required.
How to Take
Administer orally. Shake the bottle well before each use. Can be taken with or without food. If gastrointestinal upset occurs, take with food.
Mechanism of Action
Erythromycin acts by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It is generally considered bacteriostatic but may be bactericidal at higher concentrations.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action typically occurs within 1-2 hours after oral administration.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the bile and feces, with only a small portion excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in adults with normal renal function.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, though absorption may be decreased by food, particularly for the base form. Esterified forms like ethylsuccinate are generally better absorbed with food.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver via the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to erythromycin or any other macrolide antibiotic.
- Severe hepatic impairment.
- Concomitant administration with drugs that are potent CYP3A4 inhibitors and prolong the QTc interval (e.g., terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, pimozide, ergotamine, dihydroergotamine).
Drug Interactions
Antacids
Aluminum/magnesium-containing antacids may reduce the absorption of erythromycin base.
QT Prolonging Drugs
Concomitant use with other drugs that prolong the QT interval (e.g., antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, some antipsychotics) may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, including Torsades de Pointes.
CYP3A4 Substrates/Inhibitors
Erythromycin is an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and can increase plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by this enzyme (e.g., carbamazepine, ciclosporin, digoxin, theophylline, warfarin, statins like simvastatin and lovastatin leading to risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis).
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and reversible hearing loss. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered in acute overdose. Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis are not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Erythromycin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when clinically indicated. It is excreted in breast milk in small amounts but is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, though infants should be monitored for gastrointestinal disturbances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months for an unopened bottle. Once opened or reconstituted (if applicable), follow specific instructions on the label, usually stable for 7-14 days.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Erythromycin has been extensively studied since its discovery, with numerous clinical trials establishing its efficacy and safety profile for various bacterial infections. Ongoing research may focus on new formulations, drug delivery systems, or resistance patterns.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) for patients on prolonged therapy or with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
- Renal function tests (not usually required unless severe impairment).
- Serum levels of co-administered drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates, if necessary.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize to parents/caregivers the importance of completing the full course of therapy, even if the child feels better, to prevent relapse and resistance.
- Advise monitoring for gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and signs of allergic reactions or C. difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Counsel on potential drug interactions, especially with CYP3A4 inhibitors/substrates and QT-prolonging drugs.
Patient Guidelines
- Ensure the suspension is shaken well before each use to ensure uniform dosing.
- Complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and development of resistance.
- Report any severe or persistent side effects, especially severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, or jaundice, to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Erythromycin may cause dizziness in some individuals. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how this medicine affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption if it exacerbates gastrointestinal upset.
- Do not self-medicate or share this medicine with others.
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