Erythromycin 250mg

Erythromycin 250mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and whooping cough
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Ear, nose and throat infections
• Certain sexually transmitted infections as advised by the doctor
• Diphtheria and certain other bacterial infections as directed by the doctor
• Prevention of infection in people allergic to penicillin who need surgery-related prophylaxis

HOW IT WORKS

• Erythromycin blocks bacteria from making proteins they need to survive and multiply
• This slows down and eventually stops the growth of the bacteria, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against viral infections such as common cold or flu
• It is not effective for infections caused by bacteria resistant to erythromycin
• It should not be used to self-treat undiagnosed fever or infection without medical advice

How to Use Erythromycin 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually at evenly spaced intervals through the day
• Swallow the tablet or capsule with a full glass of water
• It is best taken on an empty stomach, but if it upsets your stomach, it may be taken with food as advised by your doctor
• Do not crush or chew unless your doctor or pharmacist says it is safe to do so
• Complete the full course even if you feel better before finishing it
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• If a liquid suspension has been prepared, check label for how long it can be stored, usually in a refrigerator

Erythromycin 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Temporary hearing changes with high doses

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe or watery diarrhoea that does not stop
• Irregular heartbeat, palpitations or fainting
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain that may indicate pancreatitis

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Erythromycin 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics
• Have a history of liver disease caused by erythromycin previously
• Are taking certain medicines that are known to seriously interact with erythromycin, unless your doctor confirms it is safe

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing liver disease
• Have a heart rhythm problem or family history of prolonged QT interval
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have myasthenia gravis or other muscle disorders
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Statins used for cholesterol
• Certain medicines for heart rhythm problems
• Warfarin and other blood thinners
• Theophylline used for asthma
• Certain medicines for migraine (ergot-related)
• Medicines that affect liver enzymes, such as some antifungal and HIV medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine with milk or food?

It is usually best taken on an empty stomach, but your doctor may advise taking it with food if it causes stomach upset.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

It should only be used in pregnancy if your doctor feels it is clearly necessary, so please discuss your situation with them.

Can I stop the medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should complete the full course as prescribed, otherwise the infection may not be fully cured and bacteria may become resistant.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.