Erythromycin-A

INDICATIONS Condition listed above or as directed by the physician

DOSAGE Adults- Take 4 or 6 Pellets by mouth, three times daily or as suggested by physician. Children 2 years and older- take 1/2 the adult dose.

Erythromycin inhibits microsomal protein synthesis in susceptible organisms by inhibiting the translocation process. Specific binding to the 50S subunit or 70S ribosome occurs in these organisms but there is no binding to the stable 80S mammalian ribosome. Erythromycin is active against many Grampositive bacteria, some Gram-negative bacteria and against mycoplasmas and chlamydia. Absorption : Erythromycin base is destroyed by acid and is therefore administered in the form of stable ester. The rates of absorption of the base and esters are diminished by the presence of food. The stearate is hydrolyzed in the intestine and the free erythromycin absorbed. Blood concentration : After an oral dose of 500 mg. of the base of stearate, peak serum concentrations of 0.9 to 1.4 or 0.4 to 1.8 mg/ml. respectively are attained in 1 to 4 hours. Half-life: The serum half-life is 1.2 to 4 hours. In subjects with oliguria, the half-life is about 5 hours. Distribution : Erythromycin is widely distributed throughout body tissue and fluids with some retention in the liver and spleen, protein binding of erythromycin base is 73%. Erythromycin enters the cerebrospinal fluid when the meninges are inflamed. It also crosses the placenta and is excreted in the milk. Excretion : 5 to 15 % of the dose of erythromycin is excreted in the urine and large amounts of the unchanged active substance are excreted in the bile.

Allergic reactions are rare and mild although anaphylaxis has occurred. Occasionally there is abdominal discomfort after oral administration, sometimes with nausea and vomiting. This discomfort usually subsides after a few days without it being necessary to reduce the dosage.

Do not use if capseal is broken or missing. Close the cap tightly after use.

WARNINGS This product is to be used for self-limiting conditions If symptoms do not improve in 4 days, or worsen, discontinue use and seek assistance of health professional. As with any drug, if you are pregnant, or nursing a baby, seek professional advice before taking this product. Keep this and all medication out of reach of children Do not use if capseal is broken or missing. Close the cap tightly after use.

Recent data from studies of erythromycin reveals that its use in patients who are receiving high dosage of theophylline may be associated with an increase of serum theophylline levels and potential theophylline toxicity. In such cases this dose of theophylline should be reduced.