Erythromycin
Erythromycin is an antibiotic used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections. This includes respiratory tract infections, skin infections, chlamydia infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and syphilis. It may also be used during pregnancy to prevent Group B streptococcal infection in the newborn, and to improve delayed stomach emptying. It can be given intravenously and by mouth. An eye ointment is routinely recommended after delivery to prevent eye infections in the newborn.
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Trade names | Eryc, Erythrocin, others |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
MedlinePlus | a682381 |
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Routes of administration | By mouth, intravenous, intramuscular, topical, eye drops |
Drug class | Macrolide antibiotic |
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Bioavailability | Depends on the ester type; between 30% and 65% |
Protein binding | 90% |
Metabolism | Liver (under 5% excreted unchanged) |
Elimination half-life | 1.5 hours |
Excretion | Bile |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.003.673 |
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Formula | C37H67NO13 |
Molar mass | 733.937 g·mol−1 |
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Common side effects include abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects may include Clostridium difficile colitis, liver problems, prolonged QT, and allergic reactions. It is generally safe in those who are allergic to penicillin. Erythromycin also appears to be safe to use during pregnancy. While generally regarded as safe during breastfeeding, its use by the mother during the first two weeks of life may increase the risk of pyloric stenosis in the baby. This risk also applies if taken directly by the baby during this age. It is in the macrolide family of antibiotics and works by decreasing bacterial protein production.
Erythromycin was first isolated in 1952 from the bacteria Saccharopolyspora erythraea. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. In 2021, it was the 259th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 1 million prescriptions.