Indications
- Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a diverse range of bacterial infections and may also be employed for preventing specific bacterial infections.
- The mechanism of action involves halting the growth of bacteria.
- This antibiotic is effective against bacterial infections only and does not work for viral infections like the common cold or flu.
- Using erythromycin when unnecessary can lead to reduced efficacy in future infections.
Dosage and administration
- Take the medication orally as directed by the doctor, usually before a meal, for optimal absorption on an empty stomach.
- If nausea occurs, it can be taken with food or milk.
- Swallow the medication whole without chewing or crushing, as it has a bitter taste if crushed.
- Dosage and treatment duration depend on the medical condition, response to treatment, age, and weight in children.
- Take the antibiotic at regular intervals, preferably at the same time(s) daily for maximum effectiveness.
- If treating an infection, complete the full prescribed amount even if symptoms improve early. Stopping early may result in a return of the infection.
- For preventive use, follow the doctor’s directions and do not discontinue without approval.
Side effects
- Possible side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain/cramping, and loss of appetite.
- Taking medication with food may help reduce these symptoms.
- Inform your doctor if you experience persistent or worsening side effects.
- Serious side effects may include signs of liver disease, unusual tiredness, muscle weakness, blurred vision, or hearing loss.
- Seek immediate medical help for severe dizziness, fainting, or fast/irregular heartbeat.
- Rare but severe intestinal conditions, such as C. difficile infection, may occur. Contact your doctor if you have persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood/mucus in stool.
- Avoid anti-diarrhea or opioid products if you experience these symptoms.
- Prolonged use may lead to oral thrush or a new yeast infection. Consult your doctor for white patches in your mouth or changes in vaginal discharge.
- A very serious allergic reaction is rare but requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This is not an exhaustive list, and any other effects should be reported to your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking erythromycin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to it or other macrolide antibiotics.
- Discuss your medical history, especially kidney disease, liver disease, or myasthenia gravis, with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Erythromycin may affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation), leading to serious symptoms. Inform your healthcare provider if you have certain heart problems or a family history of such issues.
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium may increase the risk of QT prolongation; discuss relevant conditions and medications with your doctor.
- Some erythromycin products may contain sodium; consult your doctor if you have a salt-restricted diet or a condition worsened by increased salt intake.
- Inform your healthcare provider about erythromycin use before receiving live bacterial vaccines.
- Prior to surgery, disclose all medications, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products, to your doctor or dentist.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, particularly hearing loss and QT prolongation.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to use this medication.
- Erythromycin passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
- This information is not exhaustive, and it’s essential to discuss any concerns or specific conditions with your healthcare provider.
Buy Erythrocin at Online Canadian Pharmacy.