Often used for:
N/A
What is erythromycin?
Erythromycin treats infections and can help with stomach emptying. It is available in multiple forms including capsules, tablets (some extended-release), liquid suspensions, IV solutions, eye ointment, and topical preparations.
Erythromycin at home
- Follow food instructions for the prescribed brand (some require empty stomach).
- Shake oral liquids well and measure with the supplied device.
- Most liquids require refrigeration; check with the pharmacist.
- Discard liquids and eye ointment after the labeled expiration date.
- Store tablets and capsules at room temperature in a dry place.
- Swallow extended-release tablets/capsules whole.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Ringing in the ears or hearing loss (especially with IV)
- Pain at IV site
- Abnormal liver function (yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine)
- Symptoms of allergic reaction include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients will experience these side effects. Report any symptoms to the care team.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Inform the care team about any prior allergic reaction to erythromycin.
- Report signs of liver issues or severe diarrhea immediately.
- Finish all doses as prescribed; do not stop early without medical advice.
- Be aware of drug interactions (warfarin, theophylline, cyclosporine, phenytoin, carbamazepine, ranitidine, omeprazole, triazolam, astemizole, ergotamine, ritonavir, zidovudine, fluconazole, valproic acid, estrogen-containing birth control, digoxin).
- Use additional birth control for 1 month after therapy if taking estrogen-based contraceptives.
