Erythromycin: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. It is a prescription medicine used for chest infections, throat infections, skin infections, whooping cough and acne. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 2 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Erythromycin works

Erythromycin attaches to ribosomes, the parts of bacterial cells that make proteins. Without the ability to produce essential proteins, the bacteria stop growing and multiplying, giving the body's immune defences time to clear the infection.

What is Erythromycin used for?

Erythromycin treats a variety of bacterial infections, including chest infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis, throat and ear infections, skin infections and whooping cough. It is frequently chosen for people who are allergic to penicillin. It is also used for some types of acne and certain sexually transmitted infections. Like all antibiotics, it does not help viral illnesses such as colds or flu.

Side effects of Erythromycin

Stomach upset is the most common problem with Erythromycin. Side effects may include:

  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps or pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite

Stop taking it and get urgent help for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, a severe rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, or severe or bloody diarrhoea.

Precautions and warnings

  • Finish the full course your doctor prescribes, even if your symptoms clear up early.
  • Erythromycin interacts with many medicines, including some statins, warfarin, theophylline, carbamazepine and certain heart rhythm drugs, so tell your doctor about everything you take.
  • Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, myasthenia gravis, or a heart rhythm problem such as long QT syndrome.
  • Let your doctor know about any previous allergic reaction to erythromycin, clarithromycin or azithromycin.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss it with your doctor before use.

Frequently asked questions about Erythromycin

What is the price of Erythromycin in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Erythromycin products currently in stock range from Rs 178 to Rs 3,029 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Erythrocin Granule 60ml at Rs 178. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Erythromycin are available in Pakistan?

Erythromycin is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Erythrocin (Indus Pharma (PVT.) Ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Erythromycin?

Yes. Erythromycin is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Erythromycin be used during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss it with your doctor before use.

Are all Erythromycin brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Erythromycin in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Erythromycin brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 3 products containing Erythromycin from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information only and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine, or its dose, without speaking to a qualified healthcare professional.