Erythromycin

About erythromycin

What is erythromycin used for?

Erythromycin is a type of antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, such as chest infections, urine infections, skin infections, and mouth infections.

It is also prescribed for some longer-term skin conditions such as acne and rosacea.

Erythromycin works by killing the germs (bacteria) causing the infection.

Erythromycin is also available as an ingredient in some skin preparations used to treat acne - see the separate medicine leaflet called Erythromycin (with zinc) skin solution for acne for more information about this.

It can be taken by adults and children.

Side effects of erythromycin

Common side effects of erythromycin are:

• Feeling sick.

• Being sick.

• Tummy discomfort.

• Diarrhoea.

A full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

Side effects of erythromycin usually last a few days, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to manage erythromycin side effects

Who should not take erythromycin?

Some medicines may not be safe for certain conditions or may need extra care. Before taking erythromycin, make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have any problems with your liver or kidneys.

• If you know you have an unusual heart rhythm or you have any other heart or blood vessel problems.

• If you have been told you have low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood.

• If you have a muscle disorder called myasthenia gravis.

• If you have a rare inherited blood disorder called porphyria.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take erythromycin

• Read the leaflet in the pack before starting erythromycin. It explains how to take it and lists possible side effects.

• Take erythromycin exactly as your doctor tells you to and always check the label for the correct dose.

  • It is usually four times daily, although one or two doses daily may be sufficient for some conditions.

• Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you the right dose, which is also on the pack label. Take the doses evenly throughout the day.

• Swallow tablets whole, with a drink of water. Do not chew them. You may take erythromycin before or after food.

• When erythromycin is prescribed for a child, the dose depends upon the child's weight. Make sure you read the label carefully so that you measure out the correct amount of medicine.

• Keep taking erythromycin until the course is finished, even if you feel better, unless your doctor says otherwise.

• Short-term infections usually take 5–14 days, while chronic conditions like prostatitis, acne, or rosacea may require several weeks or months of treatment.

• If you still feel unwell after finishing your course of treatment, make another appointment to see your doctor for further advice.

• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember. Try to take the correct number of doses each day, but do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a forgotten one.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Check with a pharmacist before taking other medicines with erythromycin. Some antacids may not be safe - tell your doctor if you use them.

• Thrush (oral or vaginal) can happen after antibiotics - see your doctor or pharmacist if it occurs.

• If you take the oral contraceptive pill, extra contraception isn’t usually needed unless you have sickness or diarrhoea.

• Tell your doctor if you’re having any vaccinations, especially the oral typhoid vaccine, as erythromycin may stop it from working.

How to store erythromycin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• If you have been given liquid medicine, it will have been made up by the pharmacy and it lasts for a limited number of days only. Check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it after this date. Store it in the fridge.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for erythromycin to work?

Erythromycin usually starts to improve symptoms within 2-3 days for most infections. Full recovery can take 1-2 weeks, depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Is erythromycin a penicillin?

No, erythromycin is not a penicillin. It is a macrolide antibiotic, which works differently and is often used as an alternative for people allergic to penicillin.

Is it safe to take erythromycin during pregnancy?

Erythromycin is generally considered safe during pregnancy when prescribed by a doctor. Your healthcare provider will choose the appropriate form and dose to treat the infection effectively.

Can you drink alcohol with erythromycin?

It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking erythromycin, as it can increase the risk of side effects like stomach upset or dizziness. Alcohol doesn’t stop the antibiotic from working, but limiting intake helps you feel better.

Can you take paracetamol with erythromycin?

Yes, paracetamol can be safely taken with erythromycin. There are no known interactions, so it can help relieve pain or fever while you’re on the antibiotic.