Treat Sore Throat With Erythromycin
Learn how Erythromycin treats Sore Throat, 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 Key Facts
Who Manufactures Erythromycin?
Erythromycin is manufactured by various MHRA approved generic manufacturers.
What Form is Erythromycin available in?
Erythromycin is available as tablets, gastro-resistant tablets and as an oral suspension.
How do I store Erythromycin?
Store Erythromycin tablets at room temperature, away from excess moisture and heat. Once made up store Erythromycin suspension in the fridge at temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees, as advised by the manufacturer.
What is Erythromycin used for?
Erythromycin is used for the treatment of acute sore throat due to suspected streptococcal infection in pregnant individuals (aged 16 years and over) under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.
How does Erythromycin work?
Erythromycin is an antibiotic used for the treatment of infections caused by Erythromycin-sensitive organisms.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
You should begin to feel better within 3 days of starting Erythromycin. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, speak to your doctor.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Erythromycin?
Drinking alcohol with Erythromycin may reduce its benefits or delay it from working.
Do I need to take Erythromycin with food?
It's best to take Erythromycin with food so it does not upset your stomach.
Who can and cannot take Erythromycin?
You may take Erythromycin if you meet the inclusion criteria for sore throats for the Pharmacy First service, but may not take Erythromycin if you meet the exclusion criteria for sore throats for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Erythromycin?
Young people and adults aged 16 years and over will need to take 500mg of Erythromycin four times daily for 5 days.
What are the side effects of Erythromycin?
Side effects of Erythromycin include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite, dizziness, headache, insomnia, skin rashes, paresthesia, vasodilation and vision disorders.
Are there any Interactions of Erythromycin with other drugs?
Erythromycin interacts with ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, colchicine, Typhoid vaccine, strong inducers of cytochrome P450 (CYP), direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), calcium channel blockers, digoxin and medicines known to cause hypokalaemia.
Other important information about Erythromycin
Take Erythromycin at regular intervals and finish the course even if your symptoms improve. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery. Speak to your healthcare provider for medical advice if you have an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.
Does Erythromycin interfere with conception and contraception?
Erythromycin does not affect fertility in men or women and does not stop any type of contraception from working, however if Erythromycin makes you vomit or causes diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive may not protect you from becoming pregnant.
Can I use Erythromycin when breast feeding?
Erythromycin can be used when breastfeeding, but you must monitor your child for gastro-intestinal disturbances, oral candida infection, rashes, drowsiness, irritability, sweating or loss of appetite.
Can I use Erythromycin if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
Erythromycin is ok to take when you are pregnant, but should only be used if the benefit of treatment outweighs the 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 Treats Sore Throat
What is Erythromycin and how is it used for infected insect bites?
Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat infected insect bites when penicillin-type antibiotics (flucloxacillin) are unsuitable, typically due to penicillin allergy. It is effective against the common bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes) that cause secondary infection of insect bites. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, pharmacists can supply erythromycin for infected insect bites without needing a GP appointment.
What is the dose of Erythromycin for infected insect bites?
The dose depends on the formulation supplied: erythromycin stearate 250–500 mg four times daily (on an empty stomach), or erythromycin ethyl succinate 400–800 mg four times or twice daily (with food). Treatment is usually for 5–7 days. Children’s doses are weight-based. Your pharmacist will advise on the correct dose and how to take it.
Can I get Erythromycin through Pharmacy First?
Yes, the NHS Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to assess and treat infected insect bites, supplying appropriate antibiotics including erythromycin. The pharmacist will examine the bite, assess severity, and determine whether antibiotics are needed. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of Erythromycin?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea. Taking the ethyl succinate formulation with food helps reduce stomach upset. Less common effects include skin rash and taste disturbance. Seek advice if the bite infection worsens or you develop signs of spreading infection (cellulitis).
How do I prevent insect bites from becoming infected?
Avoid scratching bites — this introduces bacteria. Clean bites with soap and water. Apply antiseptic. Use a cold compress to reduce itching and swelling. Keep nails short. Over-the-counter antihistamines and hydrocortisone cream can help reduce itching. If a bite becomes red, swollen, warm, or weeping, seek assessment through Pharmacy First.
Experienced a Side Effect?
Report to Yellow Card (UK) or MedWatch (US)
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