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Erythromycin: Drugs
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Erythromycin gluceptate powder for injection should be stored at room temperature. For initial reconstitution (vials), only sterile water for injection (without preservatives) should be used. After reconstitution, the drug is stable for 7 days if refrigerated. Many drugs are physically incompatible with erythromycin gluceptate; refer to an appropriate reference (e.g., Trissell—see bibliography) for more information.
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Erythromycin is in a group of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Erythromycin fights bacteria in the body by killing them and attacking their cell walls (bactericidal). It is used to treat many different types of bacterial infections. It will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold (coryza) or flu.
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DRUG INTERACTIONS: Erythromycin administered together with theophylline can lead to elevated blood levels of theophylline. Theophylline is used to open airways in the treatment of asthma. For further reading, please read the Asthma article. Toxic levels of theophylline can lead to seizures and disturbances in heart rhythm. Therefore, the dose of theophylline should be reduced in patients ... taking erythromycin. Likewise, erythromycin can raise the blood levels of digoxin and warfarin (Coumadin).
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Erythromycin inhibits the cytochrome P450 system, particularly CYP3A4, which can cause it to affect the metabolism of many different drugs. If CYP3A4 substrates, such as simvastatin (Zocor), lovastatin (Mevacor), or atorvastatin (Lipitor), are taken concomitantly with erythromycin, levels of the substrates will increase, often causing adverse effects. A noted drug interaction involves erythromycin and simvastatin, resulting in increased simvastatin levels and the potential for rhabdomyolysis.
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Drug Interactions: Erythromycin use in patients who are receiving high doses of theophylline may be associated with an increase in serum theophylline levels and potential theophylline toxicity. In case of theophylline toxicity and/or elevated serum theophylline levels, the dose of theophylline should be reduced while the patient is receiving concomitant erythromycin therapy.
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Erythromycin, like any other antibiotic, works best when there is a constant amount of drug in the blood. To help keep the drug amount constant, it is important not to miss any doses. Also, it is advisable to take the doses at evenly spaced times around the clock.
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