Erythromycin stearate

Erythromycin Stearate is a type of antibiotic that belongs to the macrolide group. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted infections.

Chemical Structure

Erythromycin Stearate is the stearate salt form of erythromycin, a broad-spectrum, topical macrolide antibiotic with antibacterial activity. Erythromycin stearate binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of the bacteria, thereby inhibiting the translocation of peptides. This leads to the prevention of RNA-dependent protein synthesis, and thus the inhibition of bacterial growth.

Medical Uses

Erythromycin Stearate is primarily used to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms. These include upper and lower respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. It is also used in the treatment of acne and to prevent bacterial endocarditis and attacks of rheumatic fever.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Erythromycin Stearate can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects like hepatitis, pancreatitis, and anaphylaxis.

Precautions

Patients with a history of liver disease or myasthenia gravis should use Erythromycin Stearate with caution. It should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to erythromycin.

Interactions

Erythromycin Stearate can interact with a number of other medications, including warfarin, theophylline, and certain antiepileptic drugs. It can also interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit juice.

See Also

• Erythromycin
• Macrolide
• Antibiotic resistance