Erythromycin

What is it?

Composition

Erythromycin is available in various dosage forms, such as tablets, ointments, suspensions and injections. The main active ingredient in the drug is erythromycin, which is a macrolide antibiotic. Depending on the form of release and purpose of the drug, the composition may vary.

• Tablets contain erythromycin in the form of a base or stearate, as well as auxiliary substances such as starch, magnesium stearate and talc.
• Ointments for external use include erythromycin, as well as auxiliary components such as petrolatum and lanolin.
• Suspensions for oral administration may contain erythromycin ethylsuccinate, sucrose, flavorings and stabilizers.
• Injectable forms of the drug contain erythromycin lactobionate, as well as water for injection and other stabilizing substances.

How to use?

The correct use of Erythromycin depends on its dosage form and the specific disease. It is important to follow the doctors instructions and not change the dosage on your own.

1. Tablets and capsules are usually taken orally 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, with plenty of water. It is often recommended to take the drug 2-4 times a day, depending on the severity of the infection and the doctors recommendations.
2. The ointment or gel is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin 2-3 times a day. When applying, avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
3. The suspension must be shaken well before use. It is also taken orally, most often in several doses during the day, like tablets.
4. Injectable forms of the drug are used in a hospital setting under the supervision of medical personnel. The dosage and frequency of administration are determined by the doctor individually for each patient.

How does it work?

Erythromycin works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria. It belongs to the macrolides, a group of antibiotics that affect the process of protein synthesis in bacterial cells. Without adequate protein synthesis, bacteria cannot continue to develop and lose the ability to reproduce, which leads to their gradual death and the disappearance of the infection.

The main action of erythromycin is to bind to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria. This binding prevents the movement of amino acids needed to build new proteins and stops further growth of bacterial cells. Erythromycin is effective against a wide range of gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria, which makes it useful in the treatment of various infectious diseases, including respiratory tract, skin and soft tissue infections.

Indications

Erythromycin is indicated for the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections. It is particularly effective in cases where the patient cannot tolerate penicillin or other antibiotics. The drug is used both for the treatment of acute infections and for the prevention of relapses.

• Upper and lower respiratory tract infections such as pharyngitis, bronchitis and pneumonia.
• Skin infections including acne, erysipelas and furuncles.
• Soft tissue infections such as cellulitis and abscesses.
• Pelvic infections including endometritis and sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and syphilis.
• Prophylaxis of infections in patients at increased risk, such as rheumatic fever following exposure to streptococcal infection.

Contraindications

Erythromycin is contraindicated in a number of cases, and its use should be strictly limited or excluded in the presence of certain medical conditions. Before starting treatment, it is important to consult a doctor and consider all possible risks.

• Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics.
• Severe liver dysfunction, since the drug is metabolized in the liver and can worsen the condition.
• Simultaneous use with drugs that can cause prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram, which increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness), since erythromycin can worsen the symptoms of this disease.
• The period of breastfeeding, if the possible effect on the child outweighs the potential benefits to the mother.

Side effects

Although Erythromycin is considered a fairly safe antibiotic, some patients may experience side effects. These can be mild or more serious, so it is important to monitor your condition closely during treatment.

• Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms most often occur when taking tablets or suspensions.
• Allergic reactions, which may manifest as skin rash, itching, urticaria and, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock.
• Liver dysfunction, such as cholestatic jaundice, especially in patients with a predisposition to liver disease.
• Hearing disorders, including tinnitus and temporary hearing loss, especially at high doses or long-term treatment.
• Cardiac arrhythmias, in particular prolongation of the QT interval, which requires special attention in patients with a predisposition to cardiac disease.