Erycin (Erythromycin Estolate Tablets) work

 Erythromycin belongs to the class of medications known as macrolide antibiotics. It is used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria.

It is most commonly used to treat the following:

• lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, whooping cough, diphtheria, and Legionnaires' disease
• sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and chlamydia
• skin infections (including acne)
• upper respiratory infections such as sinusitis and pharyngitis

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

Erycin (Erythromycin Estolate Tablets) use

Adults: The recommended adult dose is 250 mg every 6 hours, 500 mg every 12 hours, or 333 mg every 8 hours. The maximum daily dose is 4 g. The exact dose and the length of treatment depends on the condition being treated.

Erythromycin enteric-coated pellets are available in capsules and can be taken without regard to meals. Taking the medication with food may reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Erythromycin 250 mg and 333 mg capsules (enteric-coated pellets) are not recommended for sprinkling, since the capsules are very full and some of the medication may be lost through spillage. If you must open the capsule, take care to open it over food so as not to lose any of the pellets.

To open the capsule, hold it with the clear end down. Gently twist off the cap. Sprinkle the entire contents of the capsule on a spoonful of applesauce, fruit jellies, ice cream, or other pleasant-tasting semi-solid food. Do not chew or crush the pellets. Swallow the spoonful of food and drink some water to make sure all the pellets are swallowed. If the pellets are accidentally spilled, start over with a new capsule and a new serving of food.

Children: The recommended dose for children depends on the age, weight, and condition of the person being treated.

Finish all of this medication, even if you start to feel better.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.