About erythromycin lactobionate
Macrolide antibiotic
Used for
- Treatment of susceptible bacterial infections when intravenous therapy is needed, including severe respiratory, skin, and pelvic infections.
- Alternative treatment for certain infections in people allergic to penicillin.
- Prevention or treatment of selected infections as part of combination therapy.
Usual adult dose
Usually 15–20 mg/kg/day intravenously, divided every 6 hours; severe infections may require up to 4 g daily.
Usual dose in children
Usually 15–20 mg/kg/day intravenously, divided every 6 hours; higher doses may be used for severe infections.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
- Infusion-site pain or inflammation
- Liver enzyme changes or hepatitis
- Abnormal heart rhythm, including QT prolongation
Important warnings
- Can cause serious allergic reactions and severe skin reactions.
- May prolong the QT interval and cause dangerous heart rhythms.
- Use caution with liver disease; intravenous treatment can injure the liver.
- Antibiotics can cause severe, persistent diarrhea from C. difficile.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically needed; the prescriber weighs benefits and risks. Avoid erythromycin estolate in pregnancy because of liver toxicity.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk. It is generally compatible, but monitor infants for diarrhea, rash, or feeding problems.
Interactions
- Potentially dangerous interactions with drugs including pimozide, ergot medicines, and some statins.
- Can raise levels of warfarin, digoxin, colchicine, and several other medicines.
- Other QT-prolonging medicines may increase abnormal heart rhythm risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.