Erythromycin is an antibiotic that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It belongs to a family of antibiotics known as macrolides, and is used to treat infections caused by both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Erythromycin is available in several different forms, including tablets, capsules, syrup, and suspensions.
Active Ingredient and Synonyms
The active ingredient in erythromycin is erythromycin ethylsuccinate, and it is also known by its generic name, erythromycin estolate. Other synonyms include Erythrocin, Erythrocin Stearate, and Erythrocin Lactobionate.
Uses of Erythromycin
1. Respiratory Tract Infections: Erythromycin is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
2. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Erythromycin is also used to treat skin and soft tissue infections, such as impetigo and cellulitis. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
3. Gastrointestinal Infections: Erythromycin is also used to treat gastrointestinal infections, such as gastroenteritis and food poisoning. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
4. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Erythromycin is also used to treat sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
5. Eye Infections: Erythromycin is also used to treat eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
6. Ear Infections: Erythromycin is also used to treat ear infections, such as otitis media. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
7. Urinary Tract Infections: Erythromycin is also used to treat urinary tract infections, such as cystitis and pyelonephritis. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
8. Prophylaxis: Erythromycin is also used for prophylaxis, or prevention, of certain infections. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Side Effects
Erythromycin can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can also cause skin rash, itching, and hives. If these side effects occur, patients should contact their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Erythromycin is an antibiotic that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is available in several different forms, including tablets, capsules, syrup, and suspensions. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and is used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, gastrointestinal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, eye infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. It can also be used for prophylaxis. Erythromycin can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if these side effects occur.
References:
1. Erythromycin: MedlinePlus Drug Information. (n.d.). Retrieved April 25, 2021, from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682217.html
2. Erythromycin: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warning. (2021, January 21). Retrieved April 25, 2021, from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5166-5059/erythromycin-oral/erythromycin-oral/details
3. Erythromycin: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More. (2021, April 14). Retrieved April 25, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/erythromycin