Treat Sinusitis With Erythromycin Stearate
Learn how Erythromycin Stearate treats Sinusitis, how to use it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results to expect. When clinically appropriate, our trained clinicians can assess your symptoms online and provide treatment without needing a GP appointment.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Erythromycin Stearate Key Facts
Who Manufactures Erythromycin Stearate?
Erythromycin Stearate is manufactured by Advanz Pharma and is approved by the MHRA.
What Form is Erythromycin Stearate available in?
Erythromycin Stearate is available as tablets.
How do I store Erythromycin Stearate?
Erythromycin Stearate tablets should be stored at room temperature.
What is Erythromycin Stearate used for?
Erythromycin is used for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis in pregnant individuals (aged 16 years and over) under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.
How does Erythromycin Stearate work?
Erythromycin Stearate is an antibiotic that stops the growth and spread of erythromycin-sensitive organisms.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
You should start to feel better within 3 days of starting Erythromycin Stearate. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, speak to your doctor.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Erythromycin Stearate?
Drinking alcohol with Erythromycin Stearate may reduce its benefits or delay it from working.
Do I need to take Erythromycin Stearate with food?
It's best to take Erythromycin Stearate with food so it does not upset your stomach.
Who can and cannot take Erythromycin Stearate?
You may take Erythromycin Stearate if you meet the inclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service, but may not take Erythromycin Stearate if you meet the exclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Erythromycin Stearate?
Young people and adults aged 16 years and over will need to take 500mg of Erythromycin Stearate, four times daily, for 5 days.
What are the side effects of Erythromycin Stearate?
Erythromycin Stearate causes side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite, pancreatitis, headaches, dizziness, hearing impairment, sleep disturbance, skin rashes, vasodilation and problems with vision.
Are there any Interactions of Erythromycin Stearate with other drugs?
Erythromycin Stearate interacts with medications such as, tolterodine, terfenadine, amisulpride, astemizole, cisapride, domperidone, pimozide, chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, ergotamine or dihydroergotamine, ivabradine, Typhoid vaccine, medicines that are strong inducers of cytochrome P450 (CYP), direct oral anticoagulants, statins, calcium channel blockers, digoxin, diuretics, corticosteroids, or xanthine.
Other important information about Erythromycin Stearate
Take Erythromycin Stearate at regular intervals and finish the full course even if your symptoms improve. If you experience dizziness or feel drowsy, do not drive or operate machinery. Seek medical advice if you have an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.
Does Erythromycin Stearate interfere with conception and contraception?
Erythromycin Stearate does not affect fertility in men or women and does not stop any contraception from working. If Erythromycin Stearate makes you vomit or gives you severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive tablets may not prevent pregnancy.
Can I use Erythromycin Stearate when breast feeding?
Erythromycin Stearate can be used in breastfeeding individuals. You must however monitor your child for gastro-intestinal disturbances, oral candida infection, rashes, irritability, drowsiness, sweating and loss of appetite.
Can I use Erythromycin Stearate if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
Erythromycin Stearate is ok to use during pregnancy, but should be used only if the benefit of treatment outweighs any risks.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
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FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About How Erythromycin Stearate Treats Sinusitis
What is Erythromycin Stearate and how is it used for impetigo?
Erythromycin stearate is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat impetigo in patients who cannot take penicillin-type antibiotics (such as flucloxacillin). Erythromycin stearate is a specific salt form of erythromycin available as 250 mg and 500 mg tablets. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, clearing the staphylococcal and streptococcal bacteria that cause impetigo. Through Pharmacy First, a pharmacist can supply erythromycin stearate for impetigo without a GP appointment.
What is the dose of Erythromycin Stearate for impetigo?
Adults: 250–500 mg four times daily for 5–7 days. Children: the dose is based on body weight and age, as directed by the pharmacist. Erythromycin stearate must be taken on an empty stomach — ideally 30 minutes before food or 2 hours after food — as food significantly reduces absorption of this formulation. This is an important difference from erythromycin ethyl succinate, which should be taken with food. Complete the full course as directed.
Can I get Erythromycin Stearate through Pharmacy First?
Yes, pharmacists can supply erythromycin stearate through the NHS Pharmacy First service for impetigo when clinically appropriate. The pharmacist will assess your skin condition, confirm the diagnosis, and select the most suitable antibiotic based on your allergy history and the medications available. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of Erythromycin Stearate?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea. Erythromycin stimulates gut motility, which can cause stomach discomfort. Taking it on an empty stomach as directed maximises absorption but may increase nausea — if intolerable, discuss with your pharmacist. Less common side effects include rash, hearing disturbances, and liver enzyme changes. Seek medical advice if you develop jaundice, persistent vomiting, or a severe rash.
What hygiene measures should I follow while being treated for impetigo?
Impetigo is highly contagious. Wash the affected area gently with soap and water, keep sores covered with a loose dressing, wash hands frequently (especially after touching the sores), avoid sharing towels and flannels, wash clothing and bedding at high temperature, and avoid close contact with others until 48 hours after starting antibiotics. Children should not attend school or nursery until 48 hours after starting treatment.
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