Erythromycin: how to take it safely
Erythrocin
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats chest, throat, skin and ear infections, especially if you are allergic to penicillin.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Finish the full course, even if you feel better.
When to take it
Take it 2 to 4 times a day, at evenly spaced times.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, or with a little food if it upsets your stomach.
What to avoid
- Stopping the course early.
- Sharing or saving leftover antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems or liver disease.
- Tell your pharmacist about all medicines you take.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea.
Get help if
Rash, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or trouble breathing: get urgent help. Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, or no improvement after 2 to 3 days: see a doctor. Yellow skin or eyes or palpitations: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.