Erythromycin (er-ith-roe-MYE-sin)

Treats infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Ery-Tab, E.E.S. 200, E.E.S. 400 Filmtab, E.E.S. 400, E.E.S. Granules, EES, Eryped 400, Eryped 200, E.E.S. Granule, Eryped, Erythrocin Stearate Filmtab, Erythrocin Stearate, Ery Tabs, Eryc, PCE Dispertab

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Chewable Tablet, Tablet, Coated Tablet, Delayed Release Capsule, Delayed Release Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
• Best taken on an empty stomach, but may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs.
• Shake the oral liquid before each use.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
• Swallow the coated tablet, delayed-release tablet, or delayed-release capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• The medicine should be taken until it is gone, or until your doctor tells you to stop taking it.

If a dose is missed:

• May be taken as soon as possible.
• Take the rest of the doses for that day at times that are evenly spaced apart.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Some brands of erythromycin are stored in the refrigerator and some may be kept at room temperature. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to store your medicine and when it should be thrown away.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking theophylline, Seldane®, blood thinners such as Coumadin®, or seizure medicines such as Dilantin® or Tegretol®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Contact your doctor right away if you develop a skin rash or itching while taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver or kidney disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Skin rash, hives or itching
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, throat, or lips
• For erythromycin estolate (Ilosone®): severe stomach pain, weakness, or if the skin has a yellow color

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Sore mouth or tongue