Erythromycin
What is Erythromycin?
Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, diphtheria, intestinal amebiasis, acute pelvic inflammatory disease, Legionnaire's disease, pertussis, and syphilis (2) (5). It works by stopping the growth of bacteria (1). Erythromycin is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, delayed-release capsules, delayed-release tablets, and oral suspension (2).
Dosage and Timing
The dosage of erythromycin depends on the type and severity of the infection being treated, as well as the patient's age and medical history (1). Erythromycin is usually taken every 6 hours (four times a day), every 8 hours (three times a day), or every 12 hours (twice a day), with or without food (2). The duration of treatment depends on the individual's response to the medication and the severity of the condition (2).
Side Effects and Interactions
Erythromycin may cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and loss of appetite (1) (2). More serious side effects may include liver problems, hearing loss, and heart rhythm problems (1) (5). Erythromycin may interact with other medications, including cisapride, pimozide, ergotamine, or dihydroergotamine, and may increase the risk of side effects or make the medications less effective (4). Before taking erythromycin, it is important to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking.
Human Studies
Erythromycin has been extensively studied in humans and has been shown to be effective in treating bacterial infections (1) (2). However, it is important to note that antibiotics such as erythromycin will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections (2). Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases the risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment (2).
Summary
To summarize, Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, skin infections, diphtheria, intestinal amebiasis, acute pelvic inflammatory disease, Legionnaire's disease, pertussis, and syphilis. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Erythromycin is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, delayed-release capsules, delayed-release tablets, and oral suspension. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the individual's response to the medication and the severity of the condition. Erythromycin may cause side effects, and it may interact with other medications. Erythromycin has been extensively studied in humans and has been shown to be effective in treating bacterial infections.
Citations:
(1) https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3959-15/erythromycin-oral/erythromycin-base-erythromycin-stearate-oral/details
(2) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682381.html
(3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythromycin
(4) https://www.drugs.com/erythromycin.html
(5) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/erythromycin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20075495?p=1
(6) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532249/