Erythromycin is the generic drug name and it is sold in brand names like Benzamycin, Emgel, Ilotycin, E.E.S., Erygel, and so on. Erythromycin is used in the treatment of bacterial infections by slowing the growth of those bacteria. This medication reduces the production of certain protein that is needed for the survival of those bacterial thus killing them. Erythromycin is also used for other purposes not mentioned here for which you have to consult your doctor.
Recommendations
Erythromycin in the form of topical gel is used in the treatment of acne vulgaris. This type of gel is sold in the brand name of Benzamycin and Erygel, with Erythromycin constituting about 3% and benzoyl peroxide about 5%. Before applying this topical gel the affected area has to be cleaned with warm water and dried. It is recommended to apply this topical erythromycin gel in the morning and the evening for effective treatment of the infection.
E.E.S. is sold in the form of granules and liquid. 200 mg of granules can be reconstituted with water and taken as 5 mL dose. In the liquid form E.E.S. 200 and E.E.S. 400 are available. E.E.S. 400 tablets are also available. Taking 5 mL of E.E.S.200 is equivalent to 200 mg of Erythromycin and 5 mL of E.E.S. 400 is equivalent to 400 mg of Erythromycin.
E.E.S. is recommended for treating upper respiratory tract infections and lower-respiratory tract infections. These infections are usually caused by Streptococcus strains.
The dosage for children is about 35 to 50 mg per kg weight of the child which can be divided into 4 doses per day. In the case of adults 400 mg per dose is recommended and the maximum per day should not exceed 4000 mg.
Precautions
Patients who are already taking medicines like pimozide and cisapride should avoid taking erythromycin as it might cause heart rhythm disorders. If you are already suffering from liver disease it is better to consult your doctor whether to take this medication or not. Exposure to sunlight might cause sunburns and your skin will be too sensitive if you are taking erythromycin. You might need to use sunscreen if you want to go out in the sun. Other side effects of taking erythromycin are diarrhea, uneven heartbeats, stomach pain, dark urine, nausea, vaginal itching, skin rash and headache.