Indications - Erythromycin is the drug of choice in the following indications- Alternative to a penicillin in penicillin-sensitive patients, penicillin-resistant staphylococcal infections, alternative to a tetracycline in mycoplasma pneumonia Pertussis diphtheria-especially in treatment of the carrier state Rheumatic fever prophylaxis Chronic bronchitis Otitis media Chronic prostatitis.
Dosage & Administration - Adults: The usual dose is 1-2 gm daily in divided doses. This may be increased up to 4 gm per day according to the severity of the infection. Children: The usual regimen is 30-50 mg/kg/day. In severe cases the dose may be doubled.
Side Effects - Erythromycin is one of the safer antibiotics. Nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances and allergy being the commonest (0.5-5%) adverse effects.
Contraindications - Erythomycin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to erythromycin.
Others - Pregnancy & Lactation There is no evidence that the use of erythromycin is hazardous in pregnancy though it does cross the placental barrier. Precautions & Warnings Erythromycin should be given with care in patients with impaired hepatic function. Overdose Effects In case of overdosage, Erythromycin should be discontinued. Overdosage should be handled with the prompt elimination of unabsorbed drug and all other appropriate measures should be instituted. Erythromycin is not removed by peritoneal dialysis or haemodialysis. Reconstitution Direction for reconstitution of suspension: Shake the bottle to loosen powder. Add 60 ml or 100 ml of boiled and cooled water to the dry powder of the bottle. For ease of preparation, add water to the bottle in two proportions. Shake well after each addition until all the powder is in suspension. Note: Shake the suspension well before each use. Keep the bottle tightly closed. The reconstituted suspension should be stored in a cool and dry place, preferably in refrigerator and unused portion should be discarded after 7 days. Storage Conditions Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children