Erythromycin 250 mg

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Erythromycin Uses 

Erythromycin belongs to the Macrolide antibiotic class. It is used to treat serious bacterial infections such as: 

1. Throat infections, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia 
2. Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) infections 
3. Skin and soft tissue infections  
4. Conjunctivitis (eye infection) 
5. Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia 

Directions for use

1. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, consistently at the same time each day.
2. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
3. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next dose; then skip the missed one. 

Erythromycin side effects

More Common

1. Nausea 
2. Vomiting 
3. Stomach pain or cramps 
4. Diarrhea 
5. Loss of appetite      

Less common 

1. Headache 
2. Dizziness 
3. Skin rash or itching   

How Erythromycin works

Erythromycin works by stopping bacteria from making proteins, which are essential for bacteria’ growth and survival. As a result, it stops the bacteria from growing and prevents the infection from spreading. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy/Hypersensitivity

 If you are allergic to this medicine, taking it can cause serious reactions like rashes, swelling, or trouble breathing. Stop the medicine immediately and get medical help. 

Myasthenia gravis

People with myasthenia gravis should use this medicine under doctor supervision, as it may worsen muscle weakness.  

Heart rhythm disorders

People with existing heart rhythm problems (such as QT prolongation or arrhythmias) should use this medicine only under a doctor’s supervision, as it can disturb heart rhythm and increase the risk of irregular heartbeat.  

Liver disease

People with serious liver disease should use this medicine only under a doctor’s supervision. As the drug is processed in the liver and can worsen liver problems.   

Erythromycin Interaction with other Medicines

Avoid taking Erythromycin with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:

Erythromycin Interaction with Food Products

Erythromycin should preferably be taken on an empty stomach; especially heavy or fatty meals can reduce its absorption and make it less effective.  

Storage   

1. The medicine should be stored at room temperature.
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture.
3. Keep away from the reach of children. 

Erythromycin Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Erythromycin: (3R,4S,5S,6R,7R,9R,11R,12R,13S,14R)-6-[(2S,3R,4S,6R)-4-(dimethylamino)-3-hydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl]oxy-14-ethyl-7,12,13-trihydroxy-4-[(2R,4R,5S,6S)-5-hydroxy-4-methoxy-4,6-dimethyloxan-2-yl]oxy-3,5,7,9,11,13-hexamethyl-oxacyclotetradecane-2,10-dione 

Intake routine/cycle 

Daily Dose

Take Erythromycin exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.

Overdose

It is not recommended to take Erythromycin more than 1000 mg/ day, as an overdose may cause serious side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or confusion. Seek medical attention immediately if any severe reactions occur. 

Erythromycin Summary

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections in throat, skin, eye, and some sexually transmitted infections. It works by binding to the bacterial 50S ribosome and blocking protein production, which stops bacteria from growing and multiplying. People who are allergic to this medicine, have severe liver disease, heart rhythm problems or myasthenia gravis should use it only under a doctor’s supervision. It is best taken on an empty stomach for proper absorption.  

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, while serious reactions may involve allergic reactions, liver problems, severe diarrhea, or irregular heartbeat. It is not recommended to take more than 1000 mg of erythromycin per day, as an overdose may lead to serious reactions such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or confusion. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these occur.   

FAQ’s 

What is the drug class of erythromycin? 

Erythromycin belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class.

What is the brand name of erythromycin? 

Common brand names of erythromycin include Erythrocin, Erythrobase, and Eryped. At SayaCare we provide medicines with their original name i.e. generic drugs, at up to 80% lower than market prices, making quality healthcare more affordable. 

What are the side effects of erythromycin? 

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and loss of appetite; serious effects may include allergic reactions, liver problems, severe diarrhea, and irregular heartbeat. 

What is the mechanism of action of erythromycin? 

Erythromycin binds to the bacterial 50S ribosome, blocking protein production, which stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying, helping the infection to clear. 

Reference

1. PubChem. Erythromycin [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from 
2. Erythromycin Dosage [Internet]. Drugs.com. Drugs.com; 2019. Available from 
3. Farzam K, Quick J. Erythromycin [Internet]. National Library of Medicine. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available from     

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.